With Singapore’s ageing population continuing its ascent, not all elderly folks nowadays, unfortunately, get the privilege to truly experience occasions such as Ramadan as a community. In the spirit of Ramadan, a time for self-reflection and bonding, Deliveroo recognises the importance of human interaction, especially for the desolated and destitute elderly. As such, it has partnered with Jamiyah Home for the Aged (Darul Takrim) this year to spend time with the 100 residents over Ramadan prayers (Mahgrib) and the breaking of fast (Iftar).
This year’s initiative, coined Deliveroo #ByYourSide, saw over 60 Deliveroo riders and employees taking time out of their busy schedules for a good cause on the first Friday of the Ramadan month. Through the distribution of food, and other mingling activities, Deliveroo riders and employees spent Ramadan by the side of the residents soaking in the festivities and meaningful engagements.
Reiterating Deliveroo’s commitment to the cause, this initiative was also for residents of the home who are non-fasting, enabling them to come together with fellow residents and Deliveroo riders as a community. As such, volunteers were onsite by early afternoon to help the home with preparation in order to get the meals ready for non-fasting residents by 5pm.
Following which, riders then continued mingling with the residents over activities such as games and chit-chat sessions until the breaking of fast during the evening prayers, where everyone had the meals together with residents who are fasting. The objective is to provide the elderly with a sense of belonging and to remind them that they too, are valued members of the community and our society. Deliveroo riders were also encouraged to volunteer at the Home beyond the session, continuing their support towards the cause.
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”We are deeply grateful for Deliveroo’s partnership and commitment to our community at Jamiyah Home for the Aged. Deliveroo’s initiative, #ByYourSide, exemplifies the spirit of compassion and inclusion during this Ramadan. It brings joy and meaningful connections to our elderly residents, fostering a sense of belonging and reminding them of their value within society. Together, we strive to create moments of warmth and togetherness, enriching the lives of our elderly residents. We look forward to continuing this partnership and positively impacting the lives of those we serve.” shared Mr Siraj Salman, Vice-President III, Jamiyah Singapore.
“This is my first time volunteering with Deliveroo and I am very heartened to be part of such a meaningful initiative. I’ve always wanted to get closer and contribute to the community in need, so this is a perfect opportunity to do so thanks to Deliveroo. It is a joy getting to know the elderly at Jamiyah Home for the Aged and spend quality time with them, especially during this Ramadan season of community building,” said Nur Naila, a participating Deliveroo Rider.
“We are always eager to give back to the community in various ways through touching the lives of as many groups of people as possible while creating positive impacts. Our partnership with Jamiyah Home for the Aged this year is the first (and definitely not the last) time we will engage with the elderly as they too are important members of our society. We are grateful to have the opportunity to work together with the home to contribute to the meaningful season of Ramadan,” said Jason Parke, General Manager, Deliveroo Singapore.
Singapore’s ageing population has been an increasing focus in recent years. In 2010, only about 1 in 10 Singaporeans were aged 65 and above. A decade later, in 2020, it has risen to about 1 in 6. By 2030, it is expected that almost 1 in 4 Singaporeans will be over the age of 65. The Government has recently ramped up efforts to support seniors to age well and be cared for within their communities – with Budget 2024 announcing S$3.5 billion to be set aside over the next decade under Age Well SG. Such is a cause for Deliveroo to be involved in, especially for elderly citizens who may be out of touch with the society.
Deliveroo Singapore has a proven record of contributing to the community through such initiatives and activities. Last year, it celebrated the return of Ramadan at full scale since the lifting of pandemic social restrictions with its #ComingBackTogether partnership with Darul Makmur Mosque, engaging over 1000 mosque-goers in a span of four days. The company launched its Heroes to Heroes and Delivering Smiles campaigns in 2022 and 2021 respectively, in partnership with Migrant Workers’ Centre and charity organisations to deliver more than 7,600 Iftar meals in total. Beyond Ramadan, Deliveroo Singapore also actively partners with charity organisations such as Food From The Heart, TOUCH Community Services and more.
