Singapore, 2 July 2025 – The Singapore Red Cross’ Youth annual fundraising and distribution drive, Project R.IC.E.+ has raised close to $630,000 to bring food and daily essentials to the local vulnerable communities, such as low-income, skipped-generation, or single-parent families; isolated seniors; persons with disabilities; and migrant workers.
Championed by 27 youth leaders from 10 institutions of higher learning, the one-year project will culminate in the packing and distribution of 42,000 bundle sets to 20,000 households from Singapore Red Cross’ programmes, and other Family Service Centres, Residents Centres, Community Centres, and Parent Organisations, to benefit about 32,000 individuals. Some 600 volunteers will gather to pack and distribute these bundle sets to the community.
Inspired by the dedication and positive impact her sister, who was then the District Head for the initiative, was making to the community, 20 year old Kasthuri Palaniappan followed suit and currently serves as the Deputy Project Director, championing the initiative’s mission to support the underprivileged families through the distribution of essential resources. Through the initiative, she met like-minded individuals, engaged deeply with the local communities, and reinforced her ability to lead with empathy and compassion.
In her two years with Project R.I.C.E.+, Kasthuri’s most memorable experience was meeting a beneficiary who held her hand and sincerely expressed her gratitude, reminding her of the real impact the youth’s efforts had on the communities that they serve.
“Being part of the project has shown me the importance of sustained community effort and strong partnerships in creating meaningful social change. Volunteering is a humbling reminder that our work goes beyond just distribution; it restores hope and dignity to those in need, and these experiences transform the project from a task to a meaningful journey,” said Kasthuri Palaniappan.
Since 2009, Sheng Siong Supermarket has been a steadfast partner of the Singapore Red Cross. Leveraging their extensive network of outlets, Sheng Siong has amplified SRC’s outreach for Project R.I.C.E.+; raising awareness and rallying shoppers to give back through this youth-led nationwide initiative. Beyond fundraising, they have also extended special rates on essential groceries required by SRC’s beneficiaries, enabling SRC to support more vulnerable communities with the daily necessities they need. In the spirit of compassion, Sheng Siong has also extended invitations to SRC’s beneficiaries to attend the popular Sheng Siong show, offering moments of joy and connection beyond material aid.
“It is heartening to see our youth stepping up to lead meaningful initiatives such as Project R.I.C.E.+, to directly support vulnerable families in our community. They are not just making a difference today; they are promoting and shaping a culture of compassion and community service into the fabric of our society. Their efforts strengthen intergenerational bonds, and reflect the true essence of SG60 celebrations. We are grateful to Sheng Siong Supermarket for the continued partnership in empowering the next generation of humanitarians,” said Mr Benjamin William, Secretary General/CEO of the Singapore Red Cross.
Since its inception in 2009, Project R.I.C.E.+ provided rice grains to the vulnerable communities and later evolved into the sharing of food items and basic necessities to address the immediate needs of the recipients. The project aims to inculcate compassion and volunteerism among youths, and extend a helping hand to the less privileged. In addition to supporting the local community through the bundle sets, the project aims to provide opportunities to form meaningful connections over the distribution day.
