Charitable organisation Mercy Relief has turned tragedies into life lessons that warrant a listen
Photos: Mercy Relief
It is in the face of adversity and tragedy do we notice the silver lining of human compassion, kindness, and critical life lessons that mould and shape the soul.
And since 2003, Singapore’s disaster relief agency Mercy Relief has acted as that beacon when human calamities and natural catastrophes strike. The organisation provides emergency aid, such as water and sanitation, shelter, healthcare and education, in the aftermath of a disaster. Its unwavering efforts have since lulled the distraught of more than 71 human tragedies across 25 countries in the Asia Pacific, while touching over 2 million lives in the process.
15 years later, Mercy Relief has humbly taken its history of taking the sting out of suffering by holding Singapore’s first humanitarian-themed family event: the Ground Zero Carnival.
Taking place on 22 and 23 September, 11am to 9pm, at Our Tampines Hub, Ground Zero Carnival is set to be its largest fundraising initiative, further imbued with an array of interactive activities for the whole family.
“In our effort to raise awareness about the importance of disaster preparedness, Mercy Relief aims to engage Singaporeans in a unique educational experience that will take visitors on a journey of a post-disaster survivor. Ground Zero Carnival will also showcase the charity’s collective impact over the past decade,” says Suhaimi Rafdi, Chairman of Mercy Relief.
“In celebrating Mercy Relief’s 15th anniversary, we also hope to grow the charitable spirit among Singaporeans from all walks of life and promote compassion and care for communities who are affected by natural disasters.”
Aside from live musical performances and movie screenings, the carnival, at the core, serves to educate and enlighten visitors in dire circumstances through interactive highlights such as Survivor’s Journey, an immersive activity that simulates a survivor in a disaster, and Glimpses From the Ground, a photo exhibition depicting the harrowing scene from the ground. The gallery is displayed in an actual deployment tent.
For carnival-goers who want to contribute, head to the Mercy Relief Sustainable Marketplace, where a selection of the organisation’s beneficiaries such as coffee from Nepal and Aceh as well as woven accessories from Baseco are for purchasing. Students from Learning Vision @ Changi Airport childcare centre will also be raising funds for Mercy Relief by selling their potted plants and art pieces on 22 September. The collaboration is part of the school’s initiative to instill kindness and empathy in students.
However, if you’re truly compelled to support the cause, you can make direct donations to Mercy Relief’s 15th Year
Anniversary Impact Fund, or pledge a $15 MR15 Food Bundle to support a needy family in Singapore, of which $5 goes towards supporting Mercy Relief’s efforts.
Remember, it is the littlest thing you do that can make a great impact for someone else.
Festival Plaza, Festive Walk South & Festival Walk East @ Our Tampines Hub
1 Tampines Walk, Singapore 528523
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