• Spotlight on youth-led community projects that support the vulnerable
• SG60 exhibition includes 60 stories of compassion and inclusivity
Singapore, 3 September 2025 – At its annual Awards Ceremony, the Singapore Red Cross (SRC) honoured more than 300 exemplary individuals and organisations, including youth leaders, volunteers, donors and community partners, for their steadfast support towards its humanitarian mission. (List of Annex A for Award Recipients)
President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, Patron of Singapore Red Cross, graced the occasion as Guest-of-Honour and presented the Awards. President Tharman said, “By mobilising people and organisations in humanitarian service, the Singapore Red Cross continues to be a powerful force for good, catalysing philanthropy, inspiring volunteerism, and forging partnerships that make a meaningful difference both locally and globally. As we celebrate SG60, I am proud to witness the shared values of multiculturalism, boldness to venture into new frontiers, and being resilient in the face of challenges being exemplified by the passionate volunteers, staff, donors, and partners of the Singapore Red Cross through your dedicated service to humanity.”
The Awards Ceremony featured a heartwarming welcome by 100 Red Cross Juniors, preschoolers whose infectious energy embodied the bright, hopeful future of the Red Cross Red Crescent Movement. On the occasion of SG60, the Singapore Red Cross showcased 60 inspiring individuals and organisations in an exhibition, sharing stories of hope and resilience across the SRC’s humanitarian services. Many were recognised at the Awards Ceremony for their outstanding commitment and compassion, reflecting the spirit of service that strengthens the fabric of our society.
To the award recipients, Singapore Red Cross Chairman Mr Tan Kai Hoe said, “Your enduring support to the Singapore Red Cross has uplifted and empowered stay-alone elderly; underprivileged families, youth, and children; persons with disabilities; and migrant workers. By learning first aid at our Academy with your friends and family, by mobilising blood donors in your company or the community - you are saving lives and keeping hope alive. So the Singapore Red Cross will continue to strive to inspire and influence others to join us in this mission—whether they are individuals, corporates, civic organisations, or government agencies. We will continue to use our humanitarian promise to catalyse interest and commitment, and foster collaborations for social impact—transcending generations and peoples, sectors and communities.”
Youth-led Projects - Concerned about Singapore’s rapidly ageing population and evolving social needs, the Red Cross Youth led a series of projects aimed at driving meaningful impact. These youth are not just participating, but leading the change. Their collective efforts reflect a growing movement of young humanitarians committed to building a more compassionate and cohesive society for the years ahead.
- Project S.W.I.F.T. - Supporting Seniors Living Alone
Youth volunteers make structured home visits and well-being assessments to stay-alone seniors on SRC’s Home Monitoring and Eldercare (HoME+) programme, engaging them in conversations and identifying their healthcare / social needs, ensuring that they are not left behind.
- Project Smiles - Uplifting Persons with Disabilities
Every alternate Sunday, youth volunteers engage residents at the Red Cross Home for the Disabled through interactive games and conversations, fostering social connection and enhancing their motor and social skills.
- Project R.I.C.E.+ - Reaching Out to the Vulnerable
Spearheaded by the Singapore Red Cross Youth (RCY), this nationwide effort mobilises youth to fundraise, pack and distribute food and daily essentials to vulnerable families and individuals across Singapore.
- iAppreciate - Empowering the Migrant Community
In collaboration with NTU’s Rotaract Club, this project by youth volunteers builds bridges with the migrant workers, offering companionship while equipping them with essential life skills in financial literacy, emergency response, and mental wellness.
Building A More Compassionate Society
Against the backdrop of the SG60 exhibition, which highlighted the transformative impact of SRC’s humanitarian programmes, President Tharman interacted with SRC volunteers, staff and partners who play a vital role in advancing the organisation’s mission. He also met SRC service-users whose lives were improved with SRC’s support - from vulnerable families overcoming adversity through food aid and financial empowerment, to children from challenging backgrounds finding renewed hope through education and mentorship. Their stories serve as a powerful reminder that compassion, when put into positive action, can uplift lives and foster a more inclusive society.
