SINGAPORE - The Boys' Brigade hopes to reach out to more than 40,000 beneficiaries with its annual Share-a-Gift project, up from almost 36,000 last year.

The project, now in its 28th year, provides needy families with more than four months of groceries thanks to donations from corporations and the public.

It aims, in particular, to meet the needs of elderly beneficiaries, who make up 5,445 out of the 8,693 wishes for specific items received this year.

"One of the biggest challenges the project faces every year is ensuring that all of the wishes of our elderly folks get adopted," said Share-A-Gift chairman Mr Lui Chong Chee on Wednesday at the Home Team NS-JOM clubhouse in Balestier.

The event also saw two beneficiary families learning how to make treats such as a cake in a mug, using groceries normally given out during the project.

The families also had their specific wishes granted early, receiving gifts such as school bags and clothing.

Madam Sharippah Rahmat, 42, who suffers from coronary artery disease and diabetes, received a new wheelchair.

Madam Sharippah, who is unable to work because of her health, said: "I hope that Singaporeans, regardless of race or religion, will come forward to help the less fortunate."

The project will run from Nov 23 to Dec 17.