18-year-old brings green to young and old

Teo Xuanwei, Today Online 15 Jan 08;

AT just age 18, Cindy Chng chairs her constituency's latest recycling programme.

More than a green initiative, the programme is one of the ways the constituency hopes to bridge the gap between generations.

Said MP for Hong Kah GRC, Mr Zaqy Mohamad: "Concepts like recycling and global warming are quite new for some senior citizens. By having young people like Cindy driving the programme, there are opportunities for youths and seniors to connect."

The response has been encouraging so far. Out of 150 volunteers involved in collection drives and recycling activities over the past two weeks, more than 20 are senior citizens.

The newspapers, clothes and plastics collected have also been exchanged for food vouchers, which will be given to more than 140 needy families.

"It's more meaningful because we're using youths' knowledge to help both the environment and people in the community who need help," said Cindy, who is waiting for her A-level results.

The constituency also recently formed a support group for the elderly called "Happy Angels", where senior citizens become mentors to their peers to share their thoughts on issues such as active ageing, and even how to get along with their daughters-in-law or grandchildren.

More plans are in the pipeline to facilitate family bonding time.

Grassroots leaders are compiling a wish-list by residents for the soon-to-be upgraded Tembusu Park.

Besides the usual greenery, residents are asking for an amphitheatre where they can enjoy weekly performances or cultural activities with their families, for example.