Ahead of Indonesia’s 81st Independence Day, the management of the Panti Sosial Perlindungan Bina Karya Harapan Mulia (PSPBHKM) in Kembangan, West Jakarta, organized a series of traditional games for its residents. A total of 210 social shelter residents took part in activities including message relays, sack races, cracker-eating contests, marble-and-spoon races, and a color-jumping game. The event was designed to provide entertainment while keeping residents motivated and engaged in positive activities. The participants included homeless women and people requiring social welfare services.
Head of the Panti Sosial Perlindungan Bina Karya Harapan, Devi Riana Sumanthi, said the activities were intended to help residents feel that the shelter is their home. She explained that living in a shelter should not prevent them from experiencing the joy and spirit of Independence Day. The celebration also aimed to strengthen a sense of togetherness and encourage a more positive atmosphere among residents. Organizers hoped the activities would help residents maintain their enthusiasm for life.
The games were held as part of the shelter’s efforts to create a supportive environment for its residents. Beyond providing entertainment, the activities gave participants an opportunity to interact, socialize, and enjoy a shared experience. The management emphasized that building solidarity was an important part of supporting the residents’ well-being. The event also served as a reminder that Independence Day celebrations can be enjoyed by people from all walks of life.
The celebration will conclude with a communal meal featuring bakso for all participants. The gathering is expected to provide another opportunity for residents and shelter staff to spend time together. Through activities like these, the shelter hopes to foster a stronger sense of community among its residents. The celebration reflects efforts to make the shelter feel more like a home while marking Indonesia’s Independence Day.
Alexander Jason – Redaksi
