Recently, a group of grade 11 students created a Food Bank Committee to raise awareness on the issue of 'food insecurity in Singapore' - not knowing where your next meal comes from. According to a 2019 UN report, 4.1% of Singaporean's experience food insecurity to a severe extent. The issue affects a diverse variety of people, from large families with low incomes to senior citizens.
The Food Bank Committee was set by grade 11 students Sheetal and Anusha. Its key objective is to raise funds for a food donation box to be set up at school so that students can contribute towards the worthwhile cause managed by the Singapore Food Bank.
"The Singapore Food Bank is one of many charities that have taken on the challenge to eradicate food insecurity," explained Sheetal. "They receive donations of surplus foods (safe to consume) from packaged food retailers, distributors and manufacturers. Through this process, not only do they support Singapore's overlooked food-insecure population but also raise awareness of their situation."
The decision to set up the committee was inspired after several visits Sheetal and Anusha made to the Singapore Food Bank's warehouse. Here they observed first hand the valuable work the organisation does, and also volunteered to help them organise their large reserves for donations.
"While working closely with the Food Bank, we have become more conscious about our attitude towards food and nutrition, and are learning not to take it for granted," said Sheetal. " Some easy habits to implement in your daily life include controlling your food portions whenever possible and pre-planning meals at home to ensure minimum wastage. Packaged foods that you do not intend to use, and are still safe to consume, can be donated to organisations such as the Food Bank. These are habits that we hope to introduce to our school community, by sharing the Food Bank's mission."
To learn more about CIS' community service programme contact their Admissions team on 67343 8088 or visit https://www.cis.edu.sg/learning/service-and-leadership
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