When a fire broke out in a Jalan Bukit Merah flat last year, the damage wasn’t confined to just the one unit. Smoke engulfed neighbouring homes, leaving behind physical damage and disruption. One of the worst affected residents was Madam Tan*, an elderly woman whose flat directly above the burning apartment. While her story didn’t make the headlines, her struggles were very real. She clearly needed help.
This is where H comes in.
The 28-year-old coach and former educator was no stranger to helping others, but this experience would touch him on a personal level. “I didn’t initially think about how bad the surrounding units might have been affected,” he admitted. But when he heard about Madam Tan’s situation, he felt compelled to act.
H worked with us to figure out what Madam Tan needed most. One of his contributions was an air purifier to help with the lingering smoke. But H didn’t just deliver the item to Mdm Tan. Despite a language barrier – H speaks little Mandarin, and Madam Tan speaks little English – they found a way to connect. Armed with Google Translate, H took the time to explain how the purifier worked. “She was so intrigued by the app,” he said with a grin. “We laughed about it, and it made things feel a lot lighter.
This spontaneous interaction wasn’t just about solving a practical problem. In that passing moment, H built trust with Madam Tan by assuring her she wasn’t navigating this difficult time alone.
Beyond the donated air purifier, H has since rallied local businesses, coordinating with painting and cleaning companies to help ready Madam Tan’s flat in time for Chinese New Year. Mdm Tan has expressed gratitude for H’s commitment to helping her – a stranger – have a home again.
H’s hope is that others will follow his lead. He recognizes there are those in our neighbourhoods, in society, who might be overlooked. “We’re lucky to live in a place with access to resources,” he said. “Sometimes, it’s just about connecting the right people to make a positive impact.”
Watching H step up reminded us of the undeniable power of community.
It’s people like him who bring Beyond’s mission to life – building bridges of care and connection. Ensuring no one slips through the cracks. H showed by example, that in challenging times, compassion can light the way forward.
As Chinese New Year approaches, Madam Tan will step into her newly restored flat and celebrate not just a new beginning, but knowing she is part of a community that looks out for her.
Let’s embrace the spirit of care and community that H has shown. Whether it’s a cash donation or thoughtful contributions like home essentials, your kindness can brighten someone’s festive season. Donate Here