For Hayden Lee, a Senior Analyst in the External Relations Department of the Energy Market Authority, that was the budget he had to work with as a volunteer in the Fresh Groceries for Every Student's Home (FRESH) programme organised by local charity, Children’s Wishing Well.

Despite not having much experience with children, Hayden decided to step out of his comfort zone when there was a call for volunteers.

“My main apprehension was the potential awkwardness and the fear of not knowing how to interact or capture the child's interest, especially considering my limited experience in engaging with children,” he shared.

The FRESH programme involves bringing children from low-income families out on supermarket shopping trips, and guiding them to choose groceries based on nutrition, healthy eating and spending within their means. Every child has a budget of $50 to work with, and they would have to prioritise what they liked and what their family would need.

“I found myself in the challenging position of having to explain to the child that the snacks in their wish list exceeded the allocated budget and was unsure of how the child would react to that.”

He was surprised when the child understood the need to spend within the allocated budget and chose to cut down on buying snacks. Instead, the child decided to use the money to purchase groceries that the whole family could enjoy.

Chief Executive Officer of Children’s Wishing Well, Joanna Tan, shared: “We started FRESH to empower the kids to make their own decisions about what they want to eat, to let them decide and understand what healthy eating is and how to budget.”

“When we first started FRESH, the kids did not know how to use the money. They spent their money on chocolates and sweets. But now, they are able to make healthier choices and work within their budget. They are also able to choose between categories of food that are nutritious, not just for themselves, but for their whole family as well,” she said.

Volunteering is not just about helping others, it also leaves volunteers with a renewed sense of purpose.

Hayden said, “Seeing the joy on the faces of those we helped reminded me of the importance of compassion and empathy in our daily lives. Even a few hours of our time can make a world of difference to someone in need. Moreover, working alongside fellow colleagues taught me the value of collaboration and teamwork in achieving common goals.”

Hayden encourages more people to consider volunteering to give back to the community to make a meaningful difference in the world.

“Volunteering is a wonderful opportunity to make a positive impact on the lives of others and contribute to a cause you care about. It allows you to give back to the community, gain valuable experiences and broaden your perspective on life.”

Since welcoming Children’s Wishing Well as our adopted charity in 2022, EMA has raised over $36,000 through fundraising activities over the festive Christmas season and a charity auction organised at EMA’s Dinner & Dance 2023. At the event, colleagues put in their bids for artworks painted by young talented artists from Children’s Wishing Well.

These donations will go a long way as they support the educational and daily living needs of children and youths from disadvantaged backgrounds and equip them with skills for their future.