Learn How Different Agencies Work Together for a Better Community Nnorth Easte Heartbeat August – November 2016

north east heartbeat nAugust – eNovember 2016 NE STARS Generation Green Hawker – Entrepreneur NE CELEBRATES NATIONAL DAY 2016 Red and White Dinner SMART LIVING Life Made Easy

Learn how different agencies work together for a better community nnorth easte heartbeat August – November 2016

NE COMMUNITY NE LEISURE 4 Mayor's Message 17 Upcoming Events

Feature Story NE Celebrates 6 Joining Forces to Help Residents National Day 2016 8 Our Tampines Hub: 2 Perspectives 18 Red And White Dinner

NE Stars Smart Living 10 10 Generation Green Hawker- 19 Life Made Easy Entrepreneur 11 A New Lease of Life for His Xchange Career 20 Sudoku Challenge and Spot The Locations Adviser Q & A 12 A Small Move Makes a Big 21 Makan 2 Difference 13 Closer to Residents, Closer to 22 Coupons Solving Issues Together 19 14 Happenings in the Neighbourhood

For advertising enquiries please contact Diana Teo Tel: 9389 5235 Fax: 6489 1354 Email: [email protected]

North East Heartbeat is published quarterly by the North East Community Development Council, 300 Tampines Ave 5 #06-01, NTUC Income Tampines Junction, Singapore 529653. North East CDC is part of People’s Association Network. Copyright is held by the publisher. All rights reserved. Production in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. The views and opinions expressed or implied in North East Heartbeat are those of the authors' and do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher. Printed by Times Printers Pte Ltd. ISSN 0219-3876. North East Heartbeat is printed on environmentally-friendly paper which comes from forests with re-planting programmes. 270,000 copies are distributed free to all homes in Aljunied, Pasir-Ris Punggol and Tampines GRCs, as well as Hougang and Punggol East SMCs. You can also pick up a copy of North East Heartbeat at all community centres and clubs in the North East district. mayor's message

Dear residents,

You may have heard of the saying “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime”.

North East CDC and its partners have been working with this principle in mind when it comes to helping our needy residents. We provide them with immediate relief to tide them over for the short term, such as providing short-term financial assistance and temporary community jobs through our Community Employment Programme (CEP). At the same time, we also want as Workforce Development Agency, every month and in total, we have to ensure that residents are able to WDA) and Ministry of Social and helped more than 1,500 residents to gain self-reliance in the long run. Family Development (MSF) to help date. This can be done by referring them our residents. Cases were referred to North East CDC’s Job Placement by MSF and WSG to our CEP, which You can find out more about how Centres (JPCs) which will help them allows our needy residents to work North East CDC has been working find full-time employment. When in various temporary community with our partner agencies in the residents become self-sufficient, our jobs. At the same time, our JPCs and feature story of this issue. resources can be freed up to help WSG would work closely in assisting others in need. these residents to find a permanent job. This tripartite partnership means With this holistic approach in that the cases are being assisted in a Mayor mind, North East CDC has been more holistic manner. An average of working our partners, Workforce 40 cases are referred to CEP by WSG Singapore (WSG, formerly known and the Social Service Offices of MSF Teo Ser Luck

亲爱的居民，

我们都知道“授人以鱼不如授人的居民推荐给东北社理会的职业配对中北区的社会服务中心接获40个案，由以渔 "的道理。心（JPC）,我们希望居民最终都能自东北社理会配对参与社区就业计划。到秉持这样的信念，东北社理会与食其力，让资源用在其他最需要的人身目前为止，我们已经协助了1500多名我们的伙伴机构携手合作，向弱势东北上。东北居民。居民伸出援手，并帮助他们最后达到自我们采取多管齐下的策略，与我您可以在这一期季刊的专题报道力更生的目标。们的伙伴劳动力发展局和社会及家庭发中，进一步的了解社理会如何与伙伴机我们的社区就业计划（CEP）就展部携手合作。在东北区，我们设立了构合作，协助东北居民。是一个很好的例子，这个计划为需要协多个职业配对中心，与劳动力发展局共助的东北居民提供短期就业机会，让同跟进个案，以确保他们求职、工作能他们通过社区工作赚取基本生活开支够渐上轨道。每个月我们平均从新加坡东北区市长应急，同时我们也把有意寻求全职工作劳动力发展局以及社会及家庭发展部东张思乐先生

4 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 ne Para penduduk sekelian,

Anda mungkin pernah mendengar contohnya dengan merujukkan mereka Secara purata 40 kes dirujukkan peribahasa "Berikan seseorang ke Pusat Pemadanan Kerja yang akan setiap bulan ke CEP oleh WSG dan itu ikan dan anda memberinya membantu mereka mencari kerja Pejabat Khidmat Masyarakat MSF, dan makan untuk sehari; ajarkan orang tetap. Apabila penduduk mampu sehingga hari ini kami telah membantu itu cara menangkap ikan dan anda berdikari, sumber terhad kita boleh lebih 1,500 penduduk. Kami akan memberinya makan seumur hidup". dimanfaatkan untuk membantu orang terus meneroka peluang kerjasama Dalam membantu golongan lain yang memerlukan bantuan. dengan rakan-rakan akar umbi kita yang memerlukan, CDC Timur Laut Dengan pendekatan menyeluruh untuk meluaskan rangkaian kita. dan rakan-rakannya telah mendukung sebegini, CDC Timur Laut telah Anda boleh mengetahui dengan prinsip ini. Kami menyediakan bekerja sama dengan rakannya seperti lebih lanjut tentang bagaimana CDC bantuan segera demi memastikan Workforce Singapore (WSG, dahulunya Timur Laut telah bekerjasama dengan mereka mampu mengharungi dikenali sebagai Agensi Pembangunan rakan-rakan agensi dalam rencana kesukaran yang dihadapi untuk Tenaga Kerja, WDA) dan Kementerian yang terkandung dalam isu Heartbeat jangka pendek, misalnya dengan Pembangunan Sosial dan Keluarga kali ini. Kami harap anda seronok menyediakan pekerjaan sementara (MSF) untuk membantu penduduk membacanya. dalam lingkungan masyarakat, seperti kita. Kita mempunyai lima Pusat Program Pekerjaan Masyarakat (CEP), Pemadanan Kerja dalam kawasan yang bermula pada 2011. Pada kita untuk menangani kesemua kes masa yang sama, kami juga ingin yang dirujukkan kepada kita dan kami memastikan bahawa penduduk akan menghubungi para penduduk Salam hormat, dapat menjaga diri mereka untuk kita untuk memastikan mereka dalam Datuk Bandar jangka panjang. Ini boleh dilakukan, keadaan baik. Teo Ser Luck

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 5 feature story

Joining Forces to Help Residents A Case Study Mr Tee (not his real name) is the sole breadwinner of a small family. He recently lost his job due to company downsizing, and when he was unable to find a similar job in the same industry for months, he became worried about household expenses and his children’s education costs. A neighbour referred him to the Tampines Social Service Office (SSO), which provided him with short-term financial support so that his family’s basic needs could be met. The Tampines Social Service Office also referred him to North East CDC, which found him a temporary job near his home so he could earn some money while looking for a permanent job. Concurrently, the Workforce Singapore (WSG) provided him with career counselling and coaching, helped him polish his resume and guided him in looking for a permanent job in another industry. Mr Tee found a permanent job five months later. The new job didn’t pay as much as his previous one, but because of the training and skills upgrading he received under WSG’s WSQ framework, he can look forward to career progression and eventually, a substantial salary increment. Mr Tee’s future is looking much brighter, but what makes him most satisfied right now is that he is once again self-reliant.

6 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 ne

“Residents come to us distressed because they have many problems and don’t know where to begin. Our job is to listen, help them prioritise and solve their problems.”

Ms Farihana (MSF)

orth East residents full-time jobs and will also give in need of a job can them a hand in their long-term find relief through job career development. placement scheme made Mr Kelvin Tan, a career coach at possibleN by a partnership between WSG’s Career Centre, works with a North East Community Development diverse group of jobseekers ranging Council (CDC), Workforce Singapore from retrenched workers to women (WSG) and Ministry of Social and going back to work on their career job agencies, MSF also assesses its Family Development (MSF). planning and job placement needs. clients to determine if they need These three organisations work The 38-year-old Mr Tan has any other forms of financial or social closely together to ensure no worked in both the public and assistance. The three agencies will vulnerable resident falls through the private sectors and his vast follow up with the cases to ensure cracks. experience has helped him residents are fully receiving the help To help job seekers, North understand the requirements of they need and making progress. East CDC has two programmes. Its a variety of jobs. This has proved Since the scheme started in Community Employment Programme useful in providing career advice to 2011, it has helped many residents (CEP) places eligible job seekers in cases under his care. become self-sufficient. To date, temporary positions for up to six Meanwhile, social service more than 1500 residents have months, which helps them to earn officers from the MSF complete the been assisted by North East an allowance while looking for a framework, playing a key role in CDC’s Community Employment permanent job. Meanwhile, another supporting the scheme. Ms Farihana, Programme. North East CDC programme the CDC supports is the 32, a social service officer from continues to see an average of 40 Job Placement Centres (JPCs), which Tampines, says: “Residents come cases a month which have been help job seekers find permanent to us distressed because they have referred by MSF and WSG. North employment. many problems and don’t know East district’s residents who need At the same time, job seekers where to begin. Our job is to listen, help can either walk in to their who approach North East CDC and help them prioritise and solve their nearest community centre or e-mail MSF will also be referred to WSG. problems.” [email protected] for more WSG will match job seekers with Besides referring residents to information or assistance.

Mr Kelvin Tan (WSG)

Kelvin handles approximately 60 cases on average every month. His previous career transitions has helped him understand the requirements of a variety of jobs, which proved useful in providing career advice for cases under his care.

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 7 feature story

Our Tampines Hub: Perspectives

ur Tampines Hub, a every day. When asked where we their destination”. project led by the People’s would likely find her in the Hub Well Sarah’s voice has been heard Association (PA), will be when it opens, she says: “I foresee and Our Tampines Hub is proud to Singapore’s first-ever spending most of my time in the announce the launch in August of Ointegrated community and lifestyle library but in a development of this a mobile app which allows people hub. It will bring together multiple scale, I don’t think I will know where to engage with the Hub, orientate agencies and offer a comprehensive to start!” themselves. range of services and facilities, She adds: “The development of On the other end of the armed with a vision of fostering Our Tampines Hub will provide more Hub’s spectrum is Mr Seah Chee a caring, learning, creative, active convenience for the community. Huang, Director for DP Architects, and green Tampines. As we draw This is especially since we have Our Tampines Hub’s appointed closer to the development’s soft the opportunity to use the Hub’s architecture firm. We asked Chee launch in November 2016, we various facilities, and are able Huang to share a highlight of his seek two different perspectives to participate in different experience working – that of a resident living near programmes here instead on this project and the development and of of travelling to different he replies: “The an architect who has been places .” project is a highly working on the project since When asked what intense, enriching its inception – to get a further improvements and meaningful better understanding of could be made, Sarah community-centric what they think of this says it would be good project that project. to have “mobile apps requires multiple Ms Sarah Nadiawati, that will allow visitors dialogues, 33, lives in Tampines to locate where they discussions and Centrale 8 and sees need to go within the deliberations, the development inch Hub so less time is from meeting closer to its completion wasted looking for rooms,

8 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 ne

What makes Our Tampines Hub special?

Our Tampines Hub is proud to Adviser to Tampines Grassroots have achieved BCA’s Green Mark Organisations. The movement (Platinum) in line with the Hub’s aims to galvanise Tampines into vision to foster a kinder and more a community that embodies gracious community, not only kindness. Residents want to between neighbours but also enhance the communal way of towards the environment. The Clean living and the Hub will be the crux and Green Singapore Campaign of this kindness movement with has been on-going since 1990, volunteerism and self-help across generating a vision and ideology that different facets of its operations. economic growth and advancement Speaking of volunteerism, Join need not take place at the expense of Our Tampines Hub as a volunteer the environment. NOW and be a part of a dynamic Our Tampines Hub is proud to and engaging team. Make new be a part of this effort. It has many friends and engage in new ‘green features’ like green walls and experiences at the Hub. We’re an eco-community garden where looking for anyone who can spare residents can contribute to the us a little time and a whole lotta growing of plants and vegetables. passion! These features, along with the expansive greenery incorporated Sign up NOW at othvolun.wix. drawing boards, right down to throughout the Hub, will allow us to com/volunteer the grounds in the Tampines work hand-in-hand with Tampines heartlands and back to drawings. residents to make Our Tampines This intensity also stems from Hub a prominent centre of eco- SCAN ME the unique participatory design friendliness for a cleaner and greener process and model of multiple- community. agency collaboration in such a In addition, Our Tampines Hub large magnitude.” supports the Tampines Kindness As for lessons learnt from Movement, which was initiated working on a project of this in September 2015 by Mr Heng scale? Chee Huang says: “This Swee Keat, Minister for Finance and experience has continued to strengthen my belief in the importance and benefits of social-based architecture as well as a more participatory design process; to purposefully co-create a project that brings our community closer in a more cohesive way, adding delight to their daily lives”.

For the full interview with Sarah and Chee Huang, please log on to www.ourtampineshub.sg

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 9 nestar Generation Green Hawker-Entrepreneur Health comes first for fish soup stall holder Derrick Ng, who serves up seafood dishes that are as nutritious as they are tasty

f you are buying Unfortunately, he had a bowl of fish to suspend operations of soup at a hawker his vegetable garden-farm or food court because of high costs. Istall, you can expect But meanwhile, he is to be served fish busy spreading the word like sliced batang on health and nutrition (Spanish mackerel). through his facebook But how about golden page, where he regularly snapper, parrot fish or posts health advice and Norwegian salmon? dietary tips. Or even lobster, Mr Ng hadn't always Mediterranean crab, dreamt of being a hawker- bullfrog and crocodile preneur and health meat? advocate, however. A You can get these former Singapore Armed less common varieties Forces logistician and of seafood and meat an engineering diploma at food court stall holder, he had to make Wang Yuan (旺源), a career switch after he run by Mr Derrick Ng, sustained an injury in a at Tampines Central fall. Also, he developed Community Centre. At an interest in health and his stall which he runs nutrition when he wanted with his father, he offers a mind- advocate of sustainable agriculture to help boost the immunity of his boggling 30 varieties of sustainably and natural food. son, who was in poor health then. Mr harvested fish. On top of that, every For a while, Mr Ng, a North East Ng then hit on the idea of setting up serving of fish soup comes with district resident, even grew his own a healthy food stall with his father, generous handfuls of vegetables, vegetables for use in his fish soup. who has been the trade for more making it possibly one of the He had started growing them in than 20 years, and Wang Yuan was healthiest dishes around. the corridor outside his HDB flat, born in 2011. Mr Ng, 35, is among a new but eventually, he took over the Moving on, Mr Ng wants to wave of young hawkers emerging Tampines Ville Community Garden resume operating an integrated in Singapore who have higher to meet rising demand. He says: farm-to-table concept where he can education, are passionate about the “Growing my own vegetables meant serve the vegetables he grows. He food they’re selling and are keen to my customers got to enjoy healthy, says: “I am waiting for the right time reinvent hawker fare. He is also an organic greens.” to continue my dream.”

Read and watch more at Derrick’s blog, Facebook and video:

http://derrick-green.blogspot.sg/

https://www.facebook.com/ wangyuanfishsoup/

https://vimeo.com/130179096 Mr Ng used to grow vegetables outside his Take your pick from a mind-boggling 30 HDB flat. varieties of fish and seafood from the menu.

10 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 A New Lease of Lifen e for His Career

hen bus driver Mr Neo Sengkang Community Boon Lay developed Club to set up his bicycle blurred vision and blind repair business, where it spots in his visual field still operates seven days Win 2006, he was forced to retire a week, from 10am to early from a job he had held for 20 7pm. years. This unfortunate development It has been four years left him struggling with his daily since his bicycle repair expenses and the accumulated kiosk opened and Mr medical bills. Neo now has a steady With his wife and a teenage stream of customers, daughter to care for, he was on the residents who drop by verge of despair when Mayor Teo Ser regularly to have their Luck assisted him with his medical bicycle tyres checked, bills in 2012. That encounter also chains lubricated and brought Mr Neo to North East CDC, other small problems where he was matched with suitable fixed. Some of his programmes to help him get back on customers have even his feet. become his regular Having learnt some technical kopi kakis. (coffee break skills while growing up in a kampung, friends). Mr Neo decided to set up a bicycle His bicycle repair repair business because he is handy store takes in about with bicycles. In addition, he realised $400 to $500 a month, which is that Sengkang residents do need this not a large sum of money but Mr service as there are very few bicycle Neo is happy to be earning his repair shops within the vicinity. keep. He said that he is proud to Residents looking for a job With the help of Project be independent and self-reliant may go to the nearest Job S.U.C.C.E.S.S ( a job placement again. Placement Centres (JPCs) centre started in year 2004), Mr Neo Staff from North East CDC still was allocated a rent-free space in call or visit Mr Neo from time to time, Project S.U.C.C.E.S.S. to check if he needs any financial or 2 Sengkang Square #04-04 medical assistance. In the past few Sengkang Community Club years, he had been granted medical Singapore 545025 assistance, as well as utility and Tel: 6388-1742 conservancy assistance. With a card Job Hub @ Rivervale provided by Singapore Association of Blk 193 Rivervale Drive, #01-787, the Visually Handicapped (SAVH), Mr Singapore 540193 Neo now enjoys discounted travel on Tel: 6388-2023 public transport. Mr Neo is grateful for the 1-Stop @ Paya Lebar slew of schemes provided by the Blk 115 Hougang Avenue 1, #01-1314, Singapore 530115 Government and North East CDC to Tel: 6289-0115 assist him in all these years. Mayor Teo Ser Luck still visits him whenever Hougang Job Hub he is in the vicinity, to check on how Blk 2 Hougang Avenue 3 #01-292 , he is doing. Singapore 530002 Mr Neo told us that he is a Tel: 6383-5935 contented man, he said: “I am happy Job Hub @ BRP to be independent and to work Blk 810 Hougang Central #02-216, again.” Singapore 530810 Tel: 6289-2601

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 11 adviser Q & A

A Small Move Makes a Big Difference

Mr Lee Hong Chuang, a grassroots volunteer-turned-Grassroots Adviser, is passionate about improving lives in Hougang SMC.

North East CDC worked with Sun Love, a VWO, to get an ambulance to take the wife to hospital for physiotherapy. They have to pay only a token sum for it. Later on, we helped them rent rehabilitation equipment from the hospital so that she can do physiotherapy at home, which makes it more convenient for her. They have been very appreciative of such an arrangement, and this showed me that a small gesture can mean so much to people. It has taught You have volunteered in the housing estates, the HDB blocks me to go the extra mile to help Q grassroots for many years. How here are getting lift upgradings others. have things changed? too. I served as a grassroots volunteer You were a former national in Teck Ghee for 27 years, working How has your move to Q athlete and a SEA Games mainly with youths. When I came to Hougang changed your competition manager. What Hougang late last year, my roles and priorities and perspective inspired you to serve in the responsibilities expanded. Hougang towards life? grassroots? has a higher proportion of senior One major change is that In my teenage years, I trained citizens, so I have to address issues my role has expanded. In Teck as a gymnast for hours after such as active ageing. One of my Ghee, I was involved mainly school. On weekdays, I put in priorities now is taking care of the with youths. I started out as a nine hours of gruelling training physical and mental well-being of children’s camp instructor in Teck from 2pm to 11pm. During the senior residents in the community Ghee in 1989 before I became a weekends, I trained from 9am but I will continue to look after other grassroots leader responsible for to 2pm. I did my homework and age groups as well. grooming future youth leaders. school projects after my training. As I am holding a full-time job, Training in this fashion not How are you handling your new now I have to do more with less only strengthened my physical Q challenges? time and I need to better manage stamina but also greatly boosted We have introduced wellness my time and prioritise things. my concentration, determination programmes to promote active My engagement with different and perseverance. ageing, featuring activities like brisk residents also helped me to When I volunteered as a walking, social dance, some simple understand their diverse needs gymnastics coach in a community sports and medical check-ups. To and aspirations. club, a boy came to me one day keep senior citizens engaged, we have and said, “if I didn’t meet you also included them in the Community and pick up gymnastics, I would Employment Programme – Active Has anything left a deep have been lost”, meaning he Agers (CEP-AA) to help them get Q impression on you? might have become a delinquent. temporary jobs (such as manning There are many incidents, Words like these have motivated mobile cafes) or permanent positions. but I will cite just one. There is me since. I am willing to spend To make the roads safer in a couple in our community – time and effort to make a Hougang, we have marked out Silver the wife has cancer while the difference to our community. Zones with elderly-friendly road husband is unemployed. Besides safety features. And, like in the other providing free food supplements,

12 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 ne Closer to Residents, Closer to Solving Issues Together

Wearing two hats as a working mother and Adviser to Punggol West GROs enables Ms Sun Xue Ling to understand the challenges her residents face.

What has been your biggest Q challenge doing grassroots work so far and what has been your response to it? Punggol West is growing very quickly. We expect to have about 33 percent more residents within the next four years. Given the age of our constituency, we have a relatively new grassroots network. As the residents here are new and are busy settling their families down, it What has inspired you the What are the benefits of takes more time to encourage them Q most since you became an Q being a working mother to take up volunteer work. Thus, adviser to Punggol West serving the needs of we face the formidable challenge Grassroots Organisations? residents in Punggol? of recruiting grassroots volunteers I have been exploring I think being a mother to represent the interests of our ways to create temporary of a three-year-old and with residents and respond effectively to infrastructural solutions another on the way is helpful issues raised. in Punggol West as young in understanding the needs of I have been conducting weekly parents would like more young families in Punggol. As house visits and have used facilities for their little ones. I amble along the walkways the opportunity to encourage I was thus delighted to of Punggol town with my residents to step forward to work with North East CDC seven-month-pregnant belly, I serve as volunteers. I have also to put together a container am more keenly aware of the leveraged on a core group of library of 2,000 books for a issues that young families bring experienced grassroots volunteers start to serve the needs of up to me such as places where to hot-house new volunteers. In the young children in Punggol prams are unable to access and meantime, we are organising many West. I am also extremely the wish for childcare centres community activities to promote grateful to Loyang Tua Pek near their homes. I have neighbourliness and to also Kong for sponsoring a huge discussed with the agencies to encourage the community to come part of the costs for the construct pedestrian crossings together to solve issues. container library and also the where necessary and to make National Library Board for them pram- and wheelchair- partnering us on this project. friendly. I am also starting a I am looking forward to study corner where mums in working with North East CDC the community can help to to create a toy library for my watch over our children as I residents and also kick start understand the importance a story-telling programme. of having a conducive We will also engage residents environment for our children to co-create these places to study. So I think that being together-we will be starting a working mother allows me a book donation and toy to look through the lenses donation drive and also of young families and help training parent volunteers to bring about solutions to better engage in story-telling. address their needs.

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 13 happenings in the neighbourhood Giving Thanks Goes On Lifts

ast year, to commemorate SG50, North East CDC ran a campaign called SG50 Give Thanks @ NE, and invited residents to submit Lvideos or photographs to thank a person who made a difference in their lives. At the same time, residents could share how they would like to pay their gratitude forward. The campaign received a good response, with an encouraging number of people submitting their pictures. And now, riding on the momentum of SG50, the photographs have been turned into lift decals in the community-based Tampines Central Kaki Bukit Bedok Reservoir - Punggol project, Celebrating 51 Years Of National Building. It aims to share the pictures of gratitude among residents. So, the next time you see these decals on the doors of lifts, do remember to give thanks to someone you’re grateful for!

What: SG51 Lift Decals Where: Throughout North East District

Hougang Pasir Ris East Punggol Coast National Day Pride and Joy

he month of August is a time for jubilation as Singaporeans across the island get together Twith their grassroots leaders and Advisers to celebrate the nation's birthday at various events. Here, we capture the joyous mood of celebrations at Bedok Reservoir, Pasir Ris, Eunos and Punggol. 1 2

What: National Day Observance Ceremonies When: In the month of August Where: 1: Punggol View Primary School 2. Bedok Reservoir Floating

Platform 3. Eunos Community Club 3 4 4. Open Field Beside Pasir Ris MRT

14 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 A Library Beyond Books ne

t this library, children are encouraged to play. This is not your typical library however; it is a toy library Aand playroom at Pasir Ris Elias Community Club where children with special needs can play together with other children. The new inclusive space contains toys that are selected not just for their fun factor, but which also allow the children to develop their skills and creativity. A toy loan programme may start when more toys are available. Ms Jessie Holmberg, North East CDC's District Councillor and Executive Director of Cerebral Palsy one another.” Alliance Singapore, said: “Barriers can Over the next few months, be non-existent when children start the initiative will also be playing together at an early age. In extended to classrooms at Metta fact, when children see their peers Welfare Association and Society What: Adopt-A-Community needing help, they will learn to look for the Physically Disabled. Programme beyond their own needs and care for When: Launched 25 May 2016 Where: Throughout North East CDC A Special Job Fair

ore than 200 vacancies were open to Persons With Disabilities (PWD) at this job fair jointly organised Mby North East CDC and the Workforce Singapore (WSG). Ten participating companies, including Siloso Beach Resort, Zingrill Holding, Japan Food Holdings and NTUC FairPrice Co- operative Ltd, offered PWD-friendly positions such as retail assistants, telephone operators and service crew. Businesses are able to see how hiring PWDs can benefit everyone in the company. Mr Kelvin Nah, a Manager at RMA Group, said: “By employing PWDs, companies give them the opportunities to see value in themselves. Staff who work with PWDs also become more caring At the job fair, WSG also shared workers.” information about its Reskilling Mr Ng Cher Pong, Chief Executive for Jobs Programme, which aims of WSG, believes that such an to strengthen the employability What: “Creating Possibilities initiative plays an important role of Singaporeans, particularly rank- – A Job Fair for All” in helping businesses adapt to the and-file job seekers, through a When: 14 May 2016 Hougang Central Hub demands of the labour market. He short-term on-the-job training with Where: said: “In today’s tight labour market, a host company. It will also provide companies need to embrace greater employers the chance to assess a diversity and inclusiveness in their job seeker’s job fit before offering workplace.” employment.

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 15 happenings in the neighbourhood

Support In Kind For Residents In Need eeded: Expertise to help vulnerable residents. North East CDC, which launched a new initiative, Adopt-A- NCommunity Programme, hopes that companies can come forward with A 100,000 km Walk ideas, expertise and staff volunteers to help the community apart from Goes A Long Way financial contributions. There are currently seven o many people, walking wanted to buy. programmes under this initiative, 100,000km may sound Madam Phyllis Tng, Chairman which include the Dedicated North insurmountable. But for staff of Tampines Changkat Community East Ambulance Service, in which and students of Tampines Development and Welfare Fund wheelchair users or the bed-bound TJunior College, walking that distance (CDWF) and a District Councillor receive subsidised ambulance support was a way to bring food for the low- with North East CDC, said: “Taking services, and the Special Talent income families of the North East families to shop for what they Fund, which helps those with special District. need is more meaningful than needs develop their talent. Other The challenge, which ran from purchasing for them items that programmes like Cafe Corners and February to the end of May, was part they may already have. This is Mobile Libraries provide temporary of the college’s 30th anniversary certainly rewarding for all of us.” employment for residents while they celebration. It was supported by FairPrice Xtra also had their search for a permanent job. North East CDC and Loyang Tua Pek staff on standby to ensure that Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Kong Temple and successfully raised everyone had a pleasant shopping Hean said: “The support of individual $60,000. experience. At the end of the trip, and corporate donors helps the North The students accompanied the families were also surprised with East community to foster friendships beneficiaries to a hypermart for an a goodie bag full of essentials by and neighbourliness in our multi- early Hari Raya shopping trip, where the hypermart. racial and multi-religious society.” families could choose what they

A Fresh Look For Homes ational Day cheer came early act of young people coming together for 60 residents from 30 to help those who are less privileged less-privileged households in than them. He said: “These youths Tampines when their homes are socially aware and they act on it. Nwere given a sprucing up in July and They understand how a clean home, August under Young NTUC’s U Heart: clear of clutter and with a fresh coat Project Refresh programme. of paint, can make a difference to the In this project, 160 volunteers, residents. North East CDC is certainly including members of Young NTUC, happy to support a programme that eight NTUC-affiliated unions, youths helps improve lives.” from Tampines GRC and members Mr Desmond Choo, Executive of the public, helped less-privileged Secretary of Young NTUC, added: families spring clean their homes, “Our youth volunteers are clearing clutter, painting their walls determined not to leave anyone and conducting bed bug fumigation. behind in the progress of our A block party with performances nation and hope to bring the spirit and games was also held for about of celebration and cheer closer to 140 Tampines residents in July. the homes of these less-privileged Mayor of North East District, Mr families through Young NTUC’s Teo Ser Luck, was encouraged by the Project Refresh.”

16 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 upcoming events

Event Date/ Time Venue Contact Details I See, I Do Workshop 3 December 2016 Kaki Bukit Park RC, Blk 550, Bedok Desmond – 6445 4223 (For parents to 9.30am – 10.30am North Avenue 1, #01-496, Singapore cultivate healthy 460550 habits for their child) (English) BMI and Blood 11 December 2016 Kaki Bukit Park RC, Blk 550, Bedok Desmond – 6445 4223 Pressure Check 8.30am – 9.30am North Avenue 1, #01-496, Singapore 460550

Nurture Your Mind 11 December 2016 Kaki Bukit Park RC, Blk 550, Bedok Desmond – 6445 4223 (English) 9.30am – 10.30am North Avenue 1, #01-496, Singapore 460550

Festive Wishes Come 17 December 2016 Tampines Changkat CC Melissa – 6781 1806 True 2016 1pm – 4pm Multi-Purpose Hall

Kaki Bukit 31 December 2016 Kaki Bukit Neighbourhood Park, Clara – 6445 4223 Countdown 8.30pm – 12.30am beside Blk 551 Bedok North Avenue 1, Singapore 460551

Upcoming Events

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 17 NE celebrates National Day 2016 Red and white dinner

hen Pasir Ris-Punggol residents got together for a National Day Dinner on August 6, they got to enjoy more than just good food. They were also entertained by stage performances and got to enjoy one another’s company. The Wresidents, all togged out in red and white in line with the dress code, ended the evening with a sing-along while merrily waving the Singapore flags in their hands.

18 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 smart living ne Life Made Easy These items For many of us, daily activities such as using chopsticks to eat noodles, scooping soup with a are available at spoon and picking up light items with our hands come so naturally to us that we don’t think twice pharmacies. about it. But for someone who is less dextrous, simple acts like these can be a challenge. In this issue of Heartbeat, we source for items that can make everyday living easier for our elderly loved ones.

Soft Spoon Who is this for? This silicone spoon is for stroke patients and elderly people who have poor dexterity and have trouble using regular utensils which are heavier and harder to grip.

Why buy this? a) The silicone spoon has a textured surface which makes it less slippery and easier to grip. b) It also has a thicker hand grip which is useful for people who cannot curl their fingers fully. c) It is lightweight and bendable.

Effectiveness: Functionality:

Dumbbells Who is this for? Bed-bound patients or patients with heart disease who do not get enough exercise. A person who does not exercise will get weaker, causing him or her to become more sedentary and dependent.

Why buy this? a) The dumbbells work muscle groups in the upper body, including the arms. Using them regularly will help your loved ones build up strength, allowing them to carry out daily activities like showering or washing clothes on their own. This will let them become more independent and restore their dignity. b) The dumbbells are made of rubber and easier to grip.

Things to note: After using these dumbbells for a while, the patient will get used to their weight. To ensure the patient continues to get a workout, buy a few dumbbells with different weights so the patient can move on to progressively heavier weights.

Effectiveness: Function:

Training Chopsticks Who is this for? Elderly people who prefer to eat with chopsticks rather than a fork and spoon.

Why buy this? a) These chopsticks are designed to be easier to use than regular chopsticks and they help a patient train his or her fine finger movements.

Things to note: Using these chopsticks do require the patient to have better control of finger movements than when using other utensils.

Effectiveness: Functionality:

This story was featured in an issue of NextStep magazine, published by the Agency for Integrated Care for caregivers and seniors. You can find the latest copies of NextStep at community centres or download it on www.silverpages.sg/resource-library/NextStep.

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 19

xchange ✁ Sudoku Challenge Complete either puzzle and stand 9 8 7 to win a $20 CapitaVoucher. 2 7 HOW TO PLAY Enter the numbers from 1 to 9 in the blank spaces. Every row 7 2 4 and every column must contain only one of each number. This also applies to every 3x3 square. Have fun! 3 2 5 9

4 9 8 3 The challenge is open to all North East residents of Aljunied, Pasir Ris-Punggol and Tampines GRCs, as well as 7 4 6 8 Hougang and Punggol East SMCs. 8 5 9 Closing date is November 30, 2016. To participate, please send completed entries to: 1 2 HEARTBEAT ‘Sudoku Challenge’ August-November 2016 Contest, NTUC Income, Tampines Junction, 300 Tampines 8 6 7 Avenue 5, #06-01, Singapore 529653. Winners will be notified by North East CDC. Puzzles taken from © Web Sudoku 2016 - www.websudoku.com

4 7 5 8 6 9 3 2 1 3 1 2 4 7 5 6 9 8 Name: RESULTS OF 9 8 6 1 2 3 5 4 7 NRIC: ‘SUDOKU 5 9 8 7 4 2 1 6 3 Address: CHALLENGE’ 2 3 1 5 9 6 7 8 4 CONTEST 6 4 7 3 8 1 9 5 2 Email: (Apr–Jul 2016) 8 5 4 6 1 7 2 3 9 1 6 9 2 3 8 4 7 5 Contact: 7 2 3 9 5 4 8 1 6 ✁ Spot The Locations Contest HOW TO PLAY Identify the 4 locations shown in these photographs.

1 2 The contest is open to all residents of Aljunied, Pasir Ris-Punggol and Tampines GRCs, as well as Hougang and Punggol East SMCs. Closing date is November 30, 2016.

To participate, please send completed entries to: HEARTBEAT ‘Spot the Locations’ August-November 2016 Contest, NTUC Income, Tampines Junction, 300 Tampines Avenue 5, #06-01, Singapore 529653. Winners will be 3 4 notified by North East CDC.

Answers: Name:

Picture 1: NRIC: Address: Picture 2:

Picture 3: Email: Picture 4: Contact:

20 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 makan2

DID YOU KNOW? Yuzu is a citrus fruit originally cultivated in China’s Yangtse River region. The fruit was introduced to Japan in about 710 A.D where it was grown as a culinary delicacy as well as for medicine. To this day, locals use whole ripe yuzu fruit for therapeutic baths because the aroma is relaxing and the essential oil Want to cook your own healthy meals but find yourself short released from the fruit (called nomilin) of time? Starting from this issue, we will present recipes for helps to improve blood circulation. dishes that are not only healthy but also quick and easy to The fruit has three times as much prepare. Enjoy! vitamin C as a lemon and the highest amount of bioflavonoids (vitamin P) SERVES among citrus fruits. Yuzu Spinach Salad 4

Ingredients Method

Green Apple (julienned) (Dressing) Baby Spinach 100g 1 Add all the juices and sugar together in a Cherry Tomatoes (cut into halves) 5-6 pcs mixing bowl. Pine Nuts cup 2 Whisk until the sugar melts. Add salt and pepper to Walnut cup taste. Fresh Yuzu (julienned) 3 Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and continue to whisk until the olive oil emulsifies with the juices. Dressing 4 Add more salt, pepper and sugar to taste if desired. Set aside Extra Virgin Olive Oil 1 cup (Salad) Lemon Juice 1 tbsp 1 Add green apple, baby spinach, cherry tomatoes and Orange Juice 1 tbsp yuzu into a separate mixing bowl. Yuzu Juice 2 tsp 2 Drizzle 2 tablespoons of salad dressing and mix gently. Salt To taste (You may add more dressing if you wish.) White Pepper To taste 3 Place salad in a cold plate and generously sprinkle with Sugar To taste nuts.

Source: Health No. 1 健康No. 1 (www.facebook.com/healthnumber1/) Recipes by: Chef Yeo Kian Tiong, 杨建忠, Cornerstone Photo by: Chang King Boon 庄耿闻

AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016 21 coupons ✁ BGH SUPERSTORE CHINESE LANGUAGE GARDEN PTE.LTD Block 139, Tampines Street 11, #01-90 Singapore 521139 Blk 481, Tampines Street 44 #02-277 (Beside CK Department Store) One-time-off of $20 10% off per student for registering/re-registering for every $30 purchase Primary (P1 to P6) or Secondary (S1-S4) Chinese Enrichment Class with a selected items minimum of 3 months period.

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Coupons must be presented before purchase. TERMS & CONDITIONS: Coupons must be presented before registering. Valid for new and Promotion valid till 31st Jan 2017. The management reserves the right to amend at anytime existing student only. Promotion valid till 31st Dec 2016. The management reserves the right to without prior notice. Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. amend at anytime without prior notice. Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of E.g. Coupon must be valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue. publication. E.g. Coupon must be valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue.

DR. KEYS STATION ENG SHENG HARDWARE ELECTRIC Blk 206, Hougang Street 21, Kovan Hub S(530206), Bedok Reservoir Road, Blk 631, #01-894 S(470631) Pushcart Lot 7 Enquiry: Mr Tan 64450485 Free Painting kit set 15% off with minimum purchase of FOR ALL ITEMS $250 of paint

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Coupon must be presented before purchase.The Management TERMS & CONDITIONS: Applicable for Nippon Paint selected range only. Coupon reserves the right to amend mechanics without prior notice. Promotion valid till 31 Jan 2017. must be presented before purchase. Promotion valid till 31st Dec 2016. Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. E.g. Coupon must be Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. E.g. Coupon valid till Dec 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue. must be valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue.

SR BAKERY PTE LTD THE WAY COLOUR CENTRE & SERVICES Bedok Reservoir Rd, Blk 631, #01-916 S(470631) Bedok Reservoir Road, Blk 631, #01-960 S(470631) Enquiry: Ms Syah 90184947 Enquiry: Vincent 62428963 [email protected] 15% off 30% off on 1st item with minimum order of $50 50% off on 2nd item

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Only for walk-in purchase. Coupons must be presented before TERMS & CONDITIONS: Only for Special Offer items. Management reserves the right to purchase. The management reserves the right to amend mechanics without prior notice. amend mechanics without prior notice. Promotion valid till Dec 2016. Promotion valid till Dec 2016. Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. E.g. Coupon must be publication. E.g. Coupon must be valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue. valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue.

VICTOR HAIRWORKZ MANNING MUSIC CENTRE PTE LTD Blk 201-E Tampines Street 23 #01-K1, Singapore 527201 Block 201D, Tampines Street 21, #02-1145 Singapore 524201 Enquiry: Victor Oh 96860962 [email protected] Enquiry: 67811333 [email protected] 50% off 10% Guitars, Violin, Ukulele, Cajon Discount off any chemical hairworks Additional 20% off music class is only applicable to the first month of classes

TERMS & CONDITIONS: Coupon must be presented before purchase. Promotion valid till TERMS & CONDITIONS: Coupons must be presented before purchase. Promotion 31st Dec 2016 •The management reserves the right to amend the promotion at any time valid till 31st Dec 2017. The management reserves the right to amend at anytime without without prior notice. Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. prior notice. *Coupon must be valid for at least two months from date of publication. E.g. E.g. Coupon must be valid till Jul 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue. Coupon must be valid till Sep 2016 at least if published in Jul – Sep 2016 issue.

22 AUGUST – NOVEMBER 2016

classifieds

www.facebook.com/NECDC Inspirational Story in the North East

We would like to use this section to encourage readers to submit inspirational stories of individuals in the North East District. Readers can submit their stories to [email protected]

Selected stories will receive $30 CapitaVouchers.

Submitted stories should include: • 2 photos of the inspirational person • Write up no less than 100 words • Contact details of the writer, including, name and andLIKE follow our Facebook handphone number