Emily Yap Turns CDC Vouchers into a Sweet Surprise for St Theresa’s Home
When the digital community development council (CDC) voucher scheme rolled out on December 13, it handed every Singaporean household a tidy $100 to spend at roughly 10,000 local hawkers and heartland merchants. Emily Yap—one of the home’s long‑time volunteers and a palliative nurse at Alexandra Hospital—refused to keep her gift to herself.
Why 100 Carrot Cakes?
- She ordered 100 packets of Yong Ji Traditional Black Carrot Cake from her favourite stall at Bukit Timah Food Centre.
- Each packet can satisfy a mouthful of nostalgia for the 180 residents of St Theresa’s Home.
- And here’s the kicker: she spent the vouchers on the elderly instead of her own family.
“They’ve been living in the nursing home for a long time for their own protection,” Emily told The Straits Times. “I want to bring them good memories and lift their spirits with something delicious.”
Hawker Heroes Get a Boost
Emily, a grassroots activist from the Dunearn Neighbourhood Committee, also shows love for the struggling hawker community. “The pandemic has hit them hard,” she said, “and they need all of our support to survive.”
Official Praise
Senior Minister of State for National Development and Foreign Affairs, Ms Sim Ann, joined Emily and her committee members to deliver the cake packets to the home.
“Emily saw that while the CDC vouchers are helpful to many families, some might be happier to donate them for a good cause,” Ms Sim said.
Mr Victor Seng, executive director of St Theresa’s Home, praised the initiative: “This is a delightful surprise for our elderly residents, many of whom adore hawker food.”
Future Plans
Emily’s committee has pledged an extra $300 worth of vouchers, with hopes of a second round of distribution next year. “Volunteering on my days off brings me joy. I have to look after myself to take care of others,” she reflected.
All in all, Emily’s sweet donation proves that a little bit of community spirit—and a good carrot cake—can turn an ordinary holiday into an uplifting celebration for those who need it most.
