Celebrating 40 Years of Sharity: Over 4,800 Walk to Support Families in Need at Community Chest Heartstrings Walk

This year, the annual Community Chest Heartstrings Walk was more than just a walk; it marked the 40th birthday of Sharity, the beloved mascot known for promoting kindness and generosity in Singapore. Over 4,800 participants, including members of the public, corporate partners, and social service agencies, came together at Marina Bay to show their support for families in need.

The event wasn’t just about walking for a cause—it was also a platform for the launch of the “Women for Good” initiative. This initiative, driven by 10 local female entrepreneurs as part of the Change for Charity programme, offers new ways for Singaporeans to donate to Community Chest, supporting vital social services.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Gan Kim Yong, had the honor of flagging off the 4.2km walk around Marina Bay. Earlier in the day, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Mr. Eric Chua, joined 39 corporate teams in a vertical marathon, climbing 57 storeys to the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark.

Community Chest made a significant impact in the previous financial year, allocating $8 million to 79 family programs. These programs, including family service centres, counselling centres, and protection specialist centres, are crucial for supporting families affected by violence. Initiatives like ComLink+ help families achieve stable employment and financial independence, while KidSTART focuses on the wellbeing of pregnant mothers and the development of their children.

Among the growing number of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) partnering with Community Chest is the “Women for Good” initiative. This initiative brings together 10 women business leaders across various industries, encouraging their customers to donate by integrating a donation mechanism into their operations. Whether it’s rounding up bills or converting loyalty points into donations, these businesses are making it easier for customers to give back. Since its launch in 2021, the Change for Charity programme has partnered with over 280 businesses, with more than 70 SMEs participating.

Marina Bay Sands, co-organiser of the event, has been a long-time partner of Community Chest, supporting sustainable philanthropy since 2011. This year, Marina Bay Sands contributed $200,000 and rallied over 50 staff volunteers along with 300 participants for the charity walk.

In addition to the walk, families and children enjoyed the Sharity Scavenger Hunt, an activity designed to celebrate Sharity’s legacy of caring and sharing.

Over the years, the Sharity programme has engaged over 400,000 children through various partnerships and fundraising initiatives, ensuring that the values of compassion and kindness continue to thrive in the next generation.