Article:The ride of their lives for Salvation Army kids get a rare treat

Saturday May 30, 2009

IT was a fun-filled day for 41 kids from the Salvation Army Penang Children's Home as they enjoyed horseback riding and exciting games at a charity event at the Penang Times Square's Open Plaza.

Organised by Ivorycares, the charitable arm of Ivory Properties Group, the event last Saturday was aimed at providing the kids, aged five to 17, with an opportunity to experience the excitement of outdoor activities and mix around with other children without any social boundaries.

State Health, Welfare, Caring Society and Environment Committee chairman Phee Boon Poh, who was present to join in the fun, said such events were in line with the company's social responsibility.

"I commend the company for giving the children a change of environment. I also hope that similar community-oriented events will figure prominently among the mall's future attractions.

"In many countries, malls aren't just a place for shopping, but also for family outings. With the environment of a modern shopping centre and lots of facilities, the Penang Times Square is a good place for families to spend quality time," he said.

The children were clearly enjoying themselves as they were taken on horseback rides around the mall's open space. Among other games they participated in were the leg-run, paper dance, blindfold games and passing the parcel. They were also treated to a meal at Marrybrown, one of the mall's fast food outlets.

Each child received a goodie bag, while winners of the games also received prizes, ensuring everyone went home with something. In a gesture of goodwill, Ivory's staff also donated provision items which were handed over to the home at the end of the event.

"In most of our past charity events, we visited the home itself. So this time, we decided to do something different and bring the kids outside, as they don't usually get the opportunity to enjoy some outdoor fun," added Ivorycares vice-president D'Yani Ramoo.

This article was taken from: The Star Online: Metro: North 30 May 2009