PERTH’S needy were lined up out the door at Uniting Care West this morning for a gourmet breakfast.
Turban Chopsticks owner Mei Sann Yong rallied her business contacts, friends and family to donate more than $25,000 worth of gourmet hot breakfast food and items for care packages for more than 300 homeless people and “goodie bags” for UnitingCare West staff as a thank you for their efforts throughout the year,
Care packages included toothpaste, shampoo, socks, clothes, underwear, water and snacks.
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READ NOWMs Yong said she wanted to give back to the community and acknowledge the hard work by staff and volunteers.
“I was lucky to be brought up in a family where giving back was just part of our upbringing, and learning to be compassionate and empathetic to others,” she said.
“Our family immigrated to Australia from Malaysia in 1988 and while we experienced challenges learning a new culture and way of life, Australia is now home and growing up here has given me so much opportunity that I feel a sense of responsibility to give back.
“My grandma, who passed this year, taught me the importance of giving back to those less fortunate.
“And, my father and uncle have always been heavily involved in the community and charity.”
Ms Yong said she hoped to inspire other businesses owners to follow suit and give back to the community.
“I think we’re living in a time where small business owners need to lead by example and work together to build a community and culture of giving that we all want for our future,” she said.
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