An Affiliate of the National Trades Union Congress (NTUC)
For more than 20 years, the Food, Drinks and Allied Workers Union (FDAWU) has been providing support and practical assistance to our members through the “Gift from the Heart” initiative. This year’s edition, held across two weekends in July, once again demonstrated the power of collective care and the difference we can make when we come together.
Reaching More Members Than Ever Before
Understanding the diverse schedules of our members in accommodation, food services, wholesale, food manufacturing, and supermarkets, we significantly expanded this year’s outreach. For the first time, the event was held at two locations—Tampines Changkat Community Club on 5 July and Frontier Community Club on 26 July. Each venue offered four different time slots throughout the day, ensuring that even members working irregular shifts could participate at a convenient time.
Thoughtful Improvements for Greater Impact
This year’s care packs saw thoughtful modifications based on member feedback. We replaced heavier items like rice and cooking oil with supermarket vouchers from
FairPrice, Sheng Siong, and DFI Retail Group outlets, reducing the weight of our “Care Bags” by over 60% while still providing essential groceries and meal vouchers. This simple but meaningful change made it much easier for our elderly members to bring their gifts home.
Organizing Committee Chairman, Brother Yusoff, added, “When we see the relief and gratitude in our members’ eyes, we’re reminded why this work matters so much. These aren’t just care packages—they’re tangible expressions that someone cares, that their union cares.”
Heartfelt Appreciation for Our Generous Supporters
The success of “Gift from the Heart” rests on the unwavering commitment of our partners. We extend our deepest gratitude to FairPrice Foundation and Lee Foundation, whose steadfast support over the years has been the bedrock of this initiative. Their belief in our cause enables us to keep making a difference in our members’ lives. We are equally thankful to all our sponsors—from those who contributed essential items to those who provided cash donations or volunteered their time. Special mention goes to our venue partner, People’s Association; AV support from Uplay; and meal sponsors Pan Pacific Hotel Group, Chang Cheng Group, and AMICI.
This year, we engaged with Bizlink Centre, a non-profit organisation that supports disadvantaged individuals, to help pack the groceries—creating opportunities for meaningful participation.
An Unforgettable Experience for Members
Beyond practical assistance, we wanted to create moments of joy and connection. For example, members who attended on the first day were pleasantly surprised to see the entire culinary and banquet team from Pan Pacific Hotel Group come out in full force, bringing a scrumptious hotel buffet to the community club.
Adding to the festive atmosphere, the Kallang Jazz Band took the stage, with over 20 singers who volunteered their talents for the event, belting out familiar tunes that had everyone singing along. The energy was electric, and as the band leader, Michael, shared with a smile: “These workers feed our city. The least we can do is feed their souls with music.”
Our partner booths—including those from the Health Promotion Board, Singapore Police Force, and Central Provident Fund Board—became hubs of empowerment, transforming health advice and scam prevention into engaging, actionable knowledge for members young and old.
A Big Thank You to Our Dedicated Union Leaders and Volunteers
A special thanks goes to the FDAWU union leaders and volunteers, who sacrificed their weekends to pack and distribute care packs and spent time chatting with members. Their dedication reminds us that the labour movement isn’t just about advocacy—it’s about workers supporting workers.
FDAWU’s leadership team, led by General Secretary Brother Sankaradass, was present throughout the events, personally engaging with members and hearing their stories. As Brother Sankaradass shared, “This initiative embodies what our union stands for—being there for our members not just in negotiations, but in the day-to-day challenges they face. Your struggles are our struggles.”
The union exists to walk alongside our members, especially in tough times. “Gift from the Heart” is more than just aid—it’s a reminder that they are not alone.
#everyworkersmatters #FDAWU
Event Photo Album: Click here
