As home quarantine and work from home measures began to take effect, one of the worst hit industries was the private transport industry and especially so for private bus drivers. Normally ferrying children to school or large groups for events, these drivers faced an onslaught of cancelled trips as the virus progressively got worse. As a result, many of them have suffered a 50% cut in their business.
Moved by their plight, #SGStrong grantee Lionel Paul Dorai, gathered a team of friends and volunteers to pack and distribute 1,000 care packages to 1,000 private bus drivers. These care packages included a simple care kit and a sanitiser spray, ensuring that the drivers can continue to practice good hygiene while feeling like they are cared for.
“I felt that we should help everyone get through this tough time together regardless of where or what they do. ”
LIONEL PAUL DORAI, FUTUREADY
“It is through adversity that we as Singaporeans should band together to show the strength of our community. We are a small country and just a simple act like remembering those who are down can make a huge ripple in society, as people get encouraged to be upstanders too.”
We hope that Lionel’s story will raise awareness on the different groups that have been affected by the virus and how you can help them. Together, we are stronger than COVID-19.