Ready or not, the COVID-19 pandemic has transitioned many companies to remote work and completely redefined the way we communicate. More than ever, engaged employees are needed to get through this challenging period. Besides ensuring everyone had access to the right tools for remote work before going into Circuit Breaker, our focus also went to our employees’ health and wellbeing.
As this new way of working was implemented in April without much of a transition period, we understood that it would be challenging not only for our organisation but our employees who might struggle with feelings of uncertainty and isolation. To help them feel more connected and engaged during Circuit Breaker, a few internal contests were held to inject some fun into the daily work-from-home situation. Food delivery vouchers were given to contest winners in hope that they would be useful during the stay-home period.
Through the “Healthy Eating” and “Tempting Dessert” contests, we discovered quite a few chefs in SHF! Contestants had to take a photo of their meals at home during Circuit Breaker and the winners were chosen based on popularity. A couple of unique dishes included Shakshuka, a classic North African and Middle Eastern one-skillet dish; and a one-pot seafood baked rice using a rice cooker.
Shakushuka, a classic North African and Middle Eastern one-skillet dish
One-pot seafood baked rice
Creativity shone through as contestants came up with well-wishes for SHF’s 50th birthday, in exactly 10 words! These were our 2 winning entries for the “SHF’s 50th Anniversary Blessing” contest:
“Warriors against cardiovascular diseases in Singapore: 50 years and beyond!”
“Guardian of Heart for every generation, 50 years and counting!”
Practicing gratitude by reflecting upon the things that we are thankful for has been associated with positive emotions and greater happiness. As the extended period of staying home could take a toll on one’s mental health, a photo contest was held to encourage our staff to take some time to notice the little things that bring them joy. It was heartening to learn more about our fellow colleagues as they shared pictures and stories about their lives at home, handmade creations, pets and even plants. Winners of the “Small Joys in Life” contest were chosen by popularity and it wasn’t surprising that cats won the day!

Your heart, we care – the tagline we stayed true to. Concerned by the rising spread and severity of COVID-19 in March, our HR and Admin team put together a Hearty Care Pack for each employee to show support. Each package consisted of reusable masks, healthy snacks, vitamins and a hand sanitiser.
As we gradually return to the office, a second care package will be given to all employees to make sure everyone feels valued and cared for. Each package will contain items like wet wipes, sanitisers, thermometers, face masks & shields, mosquito repellent, healthy snacks and a note of appreciation.
We would like to thank the following sponsors for contributing items for our care packages:
PIGEON Singapore Pte Ltd, GlaxoSmithKline Singapore, IMI Lifestyle Products Pte Ltd, Federal Oats Mills Sdn Bhd, Global Asia Printings Pte Ltd, Freshening Industries Pte Ltd and Kleen-pak Products Pte Ltd.