SEREMBAN: Orphan M. Vickneswari and her brother Viyasan who live at the Nanthisar Home here were happy beyond words when they received goodies, “ang pow” and new clothes in conjunction with the Festival of Lights that falls on Nov 4.

       The chidren aged 18 and 11 years, who are from Melaka, have been living at the home for the past five years and are looking forward to a more meaningful Deepavali with the lifting of restrictions following the Covid-19 pandemic.

       “We are so thankful to the sponsors for the gifts. Although Deepavali is a week away we are already in the mood to celebrate. I can’t wait to put on my new clothes,” said Vickneswari.

       They were among 32 orphans and children of single parents who received the gifts and cash from Harini Group Sdn Bhd in conjunction with the festival.

       Caretaker M. Brama Latha expressed her gratitude to the sponsor and hoped more donors would come forward to help the home that was run on public donations.

       Another 20 children aged between four and 18 from the Malaysian Lotus Charity Care Centre in Semenyih were also invited to the event.

       State assembly Deputy Speaker Datuk M. Ravi was present to distribute the items to the children.

       Lotus Charity Care Centre coordinator E. Jailakshna said the event was the first for the children this year.

       “The children used to have visitors who would celebrate Deepavali with them previously but last year, there were practically none.

       “We sincerely hope more people including the private sector will help these children celebrate a meaningful Deepavali,” she said.

       Ramesh Patel, the founder of Rembau’s Vivekananda Home said the 30 children aged between two and 18 as well as 14 old folks at the centre also hoped that well wishers would help them organise a Deepavali open house this year.