The aisles of Cold Storage at Siglap V rang with laughter on Dec 5, as 25 children from diverse backgrounds, including beneficiaries from the Brain Tumour Society of Singapore, took part in a festive shopping experience that turned Christmas into a celebration of inclusion and community spirit.
Organised by Cold Storage together with Joo Chiat’s interfaith organisations, charities and community leaders, the “Christmas for Everyone” event invited children to fill large Christmas stockings with any treats or gifts they wanted from the store with no spending limit.
Minister for Law and Second Minister for Home Affairs Edwin Tong, who joined the children in picking out gifts, said the celebration reflects the way communities can come together to uplift families.
“Christmas for Everyone reflects what Joo Chiat stands for, a community where people of all backgrounds come together to care, give and celebrate as one. When residents, charities and businesses work hand in hand, we ensure every child can share in the joy of the season,” he noted.
After completing their shopping, the children gathered with Mr Tong for a group photo where they chorused “East side best side!”, their voices echoing through the store.
Seven-year-old Avyaan knew exactly what he wanted to shop for. “I picked my favourite ice cream. I love chocolate ice cream the most, so I took only that!” he said gleefully, his oversized stocking nearly dragging on the floor.
Parents and community partners said the initiative offered more than just festive gifts.
“Events like these help children appreciate other races, religions and celebrations,” said Avyaan’s mother, Ms Ashtalaxmi, 39, who attended with her two sons.
Mrs T. Shanmugasundram, 81, representing Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, said: “It’s important to organise such programmes for the younger generation. It shapes their mindset in a positive, inclusive way.”
Cold Storage Managing Director Lim Boon Cheong said Christmas has long been part of the brand’s heritage.
“This event captures what the season truly means: sharing joy, care, and connection with the community,” he noted.
The event also marked the expansion of The Foodbank Singapore’s donation network in the East, with new food-collection bins added at CS Fresh @ Joo Chiat, Parkway Parade and Tampines 1.
With these additions, Cold Storage now operates 24 Foodbank collection points across the island.
Donations will support seven Joo Chiat-based organisations, including Sri Senpaga Vinayagar Temple, Masjid Abdul Aleem Siddique, and Willing Hearts.
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