JOHOR BAHRU: Staying true to its credo, the Social Hero Foundation (SHF) has unveiled the latest edition of its ‘Feed the Needy’ project.

No one should have to go hungry, especially in a world with as much wealth as ours. But the sad reality is that more than 821 million people are currently suffering from hunger. That’s one in nine people on earth who don’t have enough to eat.

Hunger is a complex problem with many root causes, including poverty, conflict, and climate change.

SHF knows there is no one-size-fits-all solution, but there are things that we can all do to help bring an end to world hunger — and opportunities to create systemic change.

SHF feels it’s important to remember that each and every one of us can do something about it — whether through combating food waste, advocating for fair policies, or supporting nonprofits.

Helping others should come naturally. It shouldn’t be a question of “why should I do it”, but “how can I do it”.

At their recent project, SHF brought home-cooked meals to those in need at the Pejabat KRT Rumah Pangsa Larkin.

According to SHF, the initiative pledges to serve 50 meals weekly for six months, ensuring a ripple effect of hope and sustenance across the city.

SHF also ensured that the initiative shines a light on single mothers, empowering them with opportunities to contribute their culinary skills.

SHF Trustee Datuk Seri Teo Shiok Fu, JP said this dual-focus approach not only addresses hunger but also fosters economic support for these hardworking women, integrating them into a community of support and empowerment.

Datuk Seri Teo said, “Seeing the smiles, feeling the heartfelt thanks, it’s clear that these meals are more than just food; they are messages of hope, telling each recipient that they are not forgotten,”

He said some people are less fortunate; life is not kind to all of us. While you might be lucky enough to live a comfortable life, others don’t have a roof over their head or food to put on the table.

“You won’t be able to help everyone in need, but your gesture, no matter how small, will definitely make a difference,” he remarked.

Helping others, he said, is not always about giving them money or material things. Some people just need a shoulder to cry on or some good advice.

He stressed that you don’t necessarily have to be friends with someone to be there for them. This is simply about being human and caring about other people’s well-being.

The compassionate mission is championed by SHF alongside esteemed partners such as Yayasan Kebajikan Negara’s Anjung Singgah (YKN), under the Malaysian Ministry of Women, Family and Community Development, KRT Rumah Pangsa Larkin and Majlis Bandaraya Johor Bahru (MBJB).

Among those present was Zaharah Selamat, a single mother participating in the project said, “This project not only gives me a chance to provide for my family but also to serve my community with love through every dish I prepare.”

Funded by the generosity witnessed during the SHF Walk for Health and Environment 2023, the “Feed the Needy” project is a testament to the power of community spirit.

SHF believes that it’s a reminder that together they can create waves of change, one meal, one smile at a time.

The project also includes psychosocial support and work placement opportunities with PERKESO as the moving forward plans.

SHF’s main objectives are to render effective help to the needy and underprivileged communities in Johor, promote national unity among all the races and promote awareness for the environment and sustainability.

SHF Director of Programs Farrah Baptist said feeding the needy in the city is one of the three SHF’s proposed social and environmental impact projects in 2024.

She said, “Together, we are orchestrating a symphony of solidarity, touching lives one meal at a time.”

She said SHF extends their deepest gratitude to all its partners and sponsors for turning this vision into reality.

“As we look forward, SHF is excited to explore more avenues to enrich lives and strengthen the fabric of our community,” she added.

SHF also organizes the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) in Johor.