Rumah Keluarga Kami celebrates 28th anniversary

KAJANG: The Society of St Vincent de Paul, Conference of the Holy Family, celebrated the 28th anniversary of Rumah Keluarga Kami (RKK) with a charity dinner and dance on Saturday, October 20, at the hall of the Church of the Holy Family.

More than 900 well-wishers attended, including Archbishop Julian Leow, Fr Vincent Thomas, President of the State Council of Selangor, Joseph Chong, Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council, Andrew Lim and the Chairman of the Parish Coordinating Council, Wilson Sebastion.

In his welcome address, the President of the Conference, Bryan Perera thanked the Catholic Community of the parish, both past and present, for journeying with the Conference during good and difficult times.

In his message published in the Commemorative Booklet, Archbishop Leow thanked the Members of the Conference for their commitment and perseverance amidst numerous adversities and for staying afloat on this “ship” for almost three decades, weathering many financial turbulences.

“When I think of all these precious children, I am reminded of what it means to be seen, to be heard, to be acknowledged.

It’s a privilege we should not take for granted, because everyday millions of children suffer unseen.

“Our humility, empathy, and our ability to walk in one another’s shoes, are our greatest strengths. And if we use these strengths, if we hold ourselves and those in power accountable, if we take action together, these children will not be alone. They will not be abused or exploited. They will have the opportunity to study, to play and to dream of their future.”

RKK commenced operations on June 1, 1990. Since then, more than 400 children of all races and religions have passed through its doors. Apart from providing shelter, the Home works towards social rehabilitation, reunification of families, counselling, understanding, kindness, holistic educational development, empowerment, restoration of self-confidence, dignity and self-reliance. The Home has provided a safe and secure environment for several hundred children who have since gone on to acquire tertiary and vocational qualifications.

At the charity dinner, a sumptuous eight course Chinese dinner was served, with entertainment provided by Small Stones.

DJ Rust, with his Music Machine, entertained the younger patrons. The highlight of the evening was the colourful and dazzling dance performances, a joint musical rendition by a Violinist (guest of the Home) and a Guitarist, a solo Beatboxing and a song in Tamil by the Children of the Home.

Archbishop Leow later presented “Appreciation Awards” to the Management Staff of the Home for their care, patience, love and kindness as caregivers to the children of the Home.

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online