THE Penang Homeless Transit Centre in Jalan C.Y. Choy today received two sets of first aid kits and its first automated external defibrillator (AED) unit from the Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society Malaysia.
State Social Development, Welfare and Non-Religious Affairs Committee chairman Lim Siew Khim, who was present to receive the donations from the non-governmental organisation (NGO), expressed her gratitude for their generous contribution.
“Their support for the home deserves commendation. The Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Malaysia is renowned for its charitable efforts, and we sincerely appreciate their kind assistance.
“This AED device and the first aid kits can be utilised when any emergency occurs,” she said at a press conference held at the centre.
Lim noted that, in addition to sheltering homeless people, the centre is frequently visited by senior citizens from the neighbourhood for recreation.
“Since the centre began operations last year, we have registered 334 individuals. Of these, 290 have left after a certain time, while 84 have found employment and permanent housing.
“Currently, there are 44 homeless people in the centre. We are concerned about their future prospects for finding jobs and accommodation,” she added.
The temporary shelter provides accommodation for up to two weeks, depending on the circumstances.
Lim also encouraged those interested in donating food to the homeless to register in advance to avoid food wastage.
The centre’s general manager Nazatulwanis Mohd Khorish said the Mutiara Food Bank provides three meals daily to the homeless, totalling 95,000 meals since the centre’s inception, with an average of 10,000 meals per month. So far, 91 NGOs have assisted the centre.
Buddhist Tzu Chi Merits Society commissioner in Penang, Datuk Khoo Boo Leong, noted the importance of having first aid equipment available for emergencies.
“We hope these medical supplies will be effectively at the centre,” he said.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En