JOHOR BARU: At a time when many single mothers are facing financial challenges because of the pandemic and uncertain economic situation, HeroMarket Johor has stepped in to bring some cheer to their lives.
Thirty single mothers from Johor Baru received food and grocery hampers courtesy of the supermarket's Plaza Angsana branch here.
HeroMarket area manager Nazatul Ikma Ahmad Ridwan handed over the grocery hampers to the single mothers today.
The single mothers were also feted to a lunch at GoodHope Hotel, sponsored by the hotel.
Nazatul said HeroMarket was deeply moved by the struggle of the single mothers facing financial difficulties.
"Many of them were badly struck by the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and we decided to alleviate their suffering by giving them some food and groceries."
The supermarket has been donating to the needy over the years and hopes to continue to serve, be compassionate and help others in need.
The single mothers depend on meagre incomes for their daily needs and many were stuck at home during Covid-19 lockdowns.
Nazatul said many of the single mothers worked as domestic helpers or did odd jobs and some were unemployed as they needed to look after their children.
She said she was happy the supermarket could ease the burden of single mothers on Malaysia Day.
"Single mothers need our help and support so that they can be empowered to create a better life for themselves and their families."
She said single mothers faced many challenges as they have to provide for their children and be their sole caregiver.
"Fortunately, many wonderful charities are willing to lend a hand when they need it most."
Norrashidah Mohd Johar, 45, said being a single mother was difficult.
"It is not what we chose, but it is what our lives have become today.
"I have one child and I work at a factory. My salary is just enough for us."
Norrashidah's husband left her after she gave birth to her child.
She thanked HeroMarket and GoodHope Hotel for their generosity.
Lee Ah Huay, 79, said she was very happy to receive a hamper from HeroMarket as it will ease her burden.
She said she lives alone at the Sri Stulang flats as all her children are married and live elsewhere.
"I will have groceries and food for a month."
Pathyama Ratnam, 72, who lives at the Sri Stulang flats, said she was grateful to HeroMarket for caring about single mothers' plight.
"I never expected to get anything. This is like a gift. And the lunch provided by the hotel was marvelous."