Spring Festival Cheer for 1,500 Migrant Domestic Workers—Off-Day Recreational Outing to Places of Attractions
While most people are getting busy with the preparation to welcome the Spring Festival with their loved ones, a group of volunteers went the extra mile to bring Chinese New Year cheers to 1,500 domestic workers from different ethnic groups at S.E.A. Aquarium on Sunday, 30 January.
The initiative was started by the Alliance of Domestic Employees Outreach (ADEO)—a new movement of Hope Initiative Alliance (HIA)—partnering with over 100 organisations to support the welfare and mental wellness of migrant domestic workers. To adhere with safe distancing measures, the tours were done on different weeks, which initially began last Sunday.
“I feel this is such a meaningful way to appreciate the hard work and valuable contributions of the domestic helpers as they play a very significant role in many Singaporeans’ lives”, shared a volunteer who joined one of the tours.
1,500 foreign domestic workers were treated to various places of interest for over 10 weeks, which included a 2-way transportation, free admission and guided tours to the designated places of attraction, meals, and gifts for participants to enjoy. These tours were sponsored by the SingapoRediscovers vouchers donated by the public.
Following the success of the tours that had been organised by the sister movement of HIA—the Alliance of Guest Workers (AGWO)—for over 4,000 migrant workers, this initiative brought the migrant domestic workers to relax and have a bonding time with their friends. Besides, they also took this opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Singapore.
This is part of ADEO’s commitment after the launch in December, to render holistic care and support to our migrant domestic workers in Singapore. More activities will be organised moving forward to foster deeper friendships with the workers.
While we all relish the break that this festive season brings to our busy working lives, let’s all take time to appreciate and befriend the migrant domestic workers in our midst. Coming from a foreign land, they may have many stories to share.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the migrant domestic workers and bring warmth and cheer, by extending kindness and care to them this Spring Festival.