SINGAPORE - To ensure the less privileged get a better new year, the Singapore Buddhist Lodge (SBL) launched its annual hongbao distribution on Jan 11.

Over 3,000 beneficiaries turned up at its River Valley premises amid a heavy downpour to receive $300 each, some accompanied by family members.

Next week, SBL staff and volunteers will give another 8,200 elderly residents in 50 local aged homes $20 hongbao each, as well as traditional festive items such as longevity buns and oranges.

The total hongbao distribution of $1.3 million to nearly 12,000 beneficiaries in 2025 was an increase of $100,000, or about 8 per cent, from the $1.2 million distributed in 2024.

The lodge, one of the oldest charities in Singapore, has been carrying out this pre-Chinese New Year philanthropic work annually since 1949.

Over 77 years, it has supported more than 300,000 beneficiaries, regardless of race or religion, distributing a cumulative total of over $20 million.

This act of caring for and supporting the disadvantaged “remains a resolute mission passed down through generations”, said SBL president Tan Lee Huak.

The initial amount of $2 allocated for each hongbao in 1949 has increased steadily over the years, reaching $250 to $300 for each ComCare and public assistance cardholder and $10 to $20 for aged home residents in 2025.

This year’s increase is in the light of the ongoing global uncertainties such as the Russia-Ukraine war, conflicts in the Middle East, and extreme weather continuing to worsen inflation, said Mr Tan, who is also the chairman of lodge’s welfare foundation.

“We hope this initiative serves as a catalyst to inspire others to join us in helping the disadvantaged, ensuring they feel cared for and supported as they welcome the New Year with hope and warmth,” he said, speaking in Mandarin at a ceremony to thank donors on Jan 11.

Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, who was at the lodge to officially open its Donor Plaque Pavilion and a...