MORE young people are rallying support for The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund, which has received an $86,000 boost from fund raising by Hwa Chong International School (HCIS) students.

This amount can help about 130 needy primary school pupils for a year.

During a ceremony at Hard Rock Hotel yesterday, Mr Tan Kim Seng, vice-chairman of its school board, presented a cheque for $85,982 to Ms Martina Wong, general manager of the fund.

About 150 underprivileged children also enjoyed a day at Universal Studios Singapore, with 540 HCIS students playing host. The outing was the culmination of three months of fund-raising efforts.

This is the first time the school is collaborating with the fund and continues a trend of more young people chipping in to do good, including an art exhibition last month where the works of 80 children were auctioned, raising more than $10,000 for the fund.

Ms Yap Pui Yee, president of the HCIS student council, feels fortunate to have been able to contribute to the cause.

The 18-year-old, who organised book sales among other fund-raising events, said: 'We can help them and give them fun and joy - I hope we can change their lives.'

Ms Wong said greater participation from schools will help the fund reach out to more families in need.

About $2 million out of a targeted $5 million to $6 million has been raised for the fund this year.