National Development Minister Khaw Boon Wan distributed red packets and oranges to residents at a home for the elderly and handicapped this morning.

He visited the Sunshine Welfare Action Mission Home in Sembawang, was given a tour of its facilities and joined residents to watch a dance performance.

The visit was part of an annual community event organised by the Sembawang Community Club Women's Executive Committee to celebrate the upcoming Chinese New Year with residents of the home. Mr Khaw is a grassroots advisor in the constituency.

Madam Lena Lai, chairman of the committee, said she hoped that such initiatives would help Singaporeans remember needy residents in times of festive celebrations.

The home was founded in 1979. It provides nursing care and shelter for sick, aged sick and handicapped people.