Fancy a haircut, uncle?
Until yesterday, the last time that Madam Soh Beng Eng had a haircut was before Chinese New Year.
The 68-year-old was among about 200 needy elderly Teck Ghee residents who were treated to a free haircut and manicure at a void deck in Ang Mo Kio Avenue 10, as part of a new elderly appreciation event held in the constituency.
"It looks so nice, and I've saved $5 for a haircut," said Madam Soh, who works as a part-time tea lady.
The event was organised by Teck Ghee Community Club and two voluntary welfare organisations, the Lions Club of Singapore Centennial and the Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Social Support and Training (Fast).
The residents were also treated to a performance by a choir comprising domestic workers from Fast.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, an MP for Ang Mo Kio GRC, was guest of honour. He greeted, mingled and took selfies with residents.
Centennial Lions Club president and Fast executive director William Chew said that such events are important as Singapore is ageing rapidly. "Everyone (in the community) is involved. We are also giving domestic workers a chance to get involved in community work," he said.
About 150 volunteers from Fast, including foreign domestic workers on their day off, gave manicures and haircuts and ushered residents around yesterday.
"It's nice to spend time doing community service for a change," said Ms Cherry Marasigan, 42. "It's worth it when you see the elderly smile."
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