The People’s Action Party Whampoa division has expanded their Mi&U (米&U) care pack distribution programme to include Blue CHAS cardholders who do not live in rental blocks. This programme, which encourages residents to donate rice to vulnerable individuals, now benefits 620 residents, up from the previous 500.
Mr Loh, who oversees the Whampoa division within Jalan Besar GRC, told Petir that the Mi&U programme was launched by his predecessor, retired MP Heng Chee How, in January 2024.
With support from corporate sponsors and the National Trades Union Congress Foundation, the programme now assists 620 vulnerable residents living in rental blocks across Bendemeer and Whampoa. The programme is also helping Blue CHAS card holders who do not live in rental blocks.
“This programme brings the community together to donate rice and other groceries, which are then distributed to those in need,” explained Mr Loh. “This initiative is twice blessed—it benefits both the person who gives and the person who receives.”
Mr Loh has observed residents bringing their children to donate groceries purchased with their pocket money. “These same children return later to distribute the groceries to their neighbours and community members, which is very, very meaningful,” he added.
“The Mi&U programme is about connecting neighbours, lending a hand, and looking out for one another. Together, we can make Whampoa a place where community comes first.”
Each donation drive involves approximately 60 to 70 volunteers, residents and branch activists, who help pack and distribute food items.
Joffre Ng, a 38-year-old volunteer, has participated in the donation drive alongside his wife and 6-year-old daughter, who attends the preschool, earlier this year. His daughter was the one who encouraged them to join after spotting bags of rice at her school, which served as one of the collection points.
“My daughter distributed goodie bags to residents at the event,” Mr Ng shared. “She has volunteered in other community events before. We believe in instiling right values like treating everyone equally, being polite, and showing respect.”
Mr Ng noted that his daughter thoroughly enjoyed the volunteering experience. The family, which also includes a two-year-old son, is looking forward to participating in other volunteering opportunities in the future.
Upcoming mi&u community donation drive is scheduled for early 2026
To date, Mr Loh’s team has completed three community donation drives, with the most recent occurring on 31 Aug. The next drive is scheduled for early 2026, he said.
Mr Loh explained that going forward, his team plans to expand the programme’s eligibility criteria, recruit more volunteers, especially youth, and increase outreach with personalised support to residents.
