KUCHING: The Kuching Autistic Association (KAA) has successfully achieved its target of raising RM300,000 through its Charity Food Fair this year.
KAA’s Annual Charity Food Fair organising chairperson Connie Yeo said it was a new record for the association to be able to raise more than the initial targeted amount.
“Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, we had never reached such a high figure, and the highest we managed to raise was around RM250,000.
“Therefore, we are very happy and grateful to the community and everyone involved, including those who contributed to make this fundraising a success,” she said.
She said this when met by reporters during the charity food fair held at the Association of Churches Sarawak’s (ACS) Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre here today (July 16).
However, she said KAA is unable to provide the total amount of funds collected until the end of the programme.
“But, from our observation, the accumulated funds have already exceeded RM300,000,” she said, adding the annual charity food fair has been held about 20 times.
Yeo added that the funds raised will be used to support the operating costs of the KAA Resource and Education Centre.
“We experience a deficit of RM750,000 for operating costs every year. So, the funds collected will be used for the overall operating costs of the centre,” she said.
She further said that besides the food fair, other events such as autism runs, art exhibitions, and others will be held to raise funds.
Meanwhile, there were 97 stalls set up during the food fair, which runs from 8am to 12pm, offering various sales of food and beverages, clothes, crafts, and others.
In addition, there were also stage dances and performances to entertain visitors.
Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Sim Kui Hian was also present to officiate at the programme, and he also took the opportunity to present the certificate of appreciation to the participating stalls.
Among those present was KAA president Dr Catherine Chen.
