DHL makes the ride easier for Vietnam's school kids

The announcement was made at the fifth annual bicycle donation ceremony on May 20 in Ho Chi Minh City, where 20 brand new bicycles were handed over to their eagerly awaiting owners by Christopher Ong, general director, DHL-VNPT Express.

“DHL Express is committed to all of the markets in which it operates,” said Yasmin Aladad Khan, senior vice president, DHL Express, Southeast Asia. “What better way for DHL to contribute to the local Vietnam community than to provide the younger generation with easier access to their schools by shortening commute time. This is a worthy cause for DHL knowing that our little contribution can make a difference to the lives of the students receiving these bicycles.”

The focus of Saigon Children's Charity is to help disadvantaged Vietnamese children to get an education and a better start in life. Through receiving the bicycles, from DHL-VNPT Express, these children can gain independence and confidence, which are vital for a well-rounded education.

“We embarked on this donation drive five years ago when we celebrated our 20th anniversary in Vietnam, and we want to continue with our quest to help as many of these children get to school as possible. This year marks our 25th year here in Vietnam and we decided to not only extend our sponsorship for the next five years but to also donate 25 bicycles annually from next year to celebrate this joyous occasion,” said Ong.

“With the busy lifestyle that is so much a part of contemporary life in Ho Chi Minh City, parents often do not have time to ensure that their kids arrive safely on time to school. We saw in this initiative an opportunity to relieve that burden slightly and to give these kids the means and independence to get to the classroom every day.”