Tony Tay

Tony Tay is a businessman and founder of volunteer group (Willing Hearts) that provides meals to poor people in Singapore. He is the recipient of Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2017.

Tony Tay

Tony Tay is a Singaporean social entrepreneur, philanthropist, and the founder of Willing Hearts, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing free meals to the underprivileged in Singapore. Under his leadership, Willing Hearts has grown from a small community initiative into one of Singapore's most prominent volunteer-driven charities, serving thousands of meals each day to those in need. He is widely recognized for his commitment to serving the marginalized and his emphasis on community spirit and social inclusion.

Early Life and Background

Tony Tay was born and raised in Singapore. He has always had a deep sense of empathy and a strong desire to help others. Before founding Willing Hearts, Tony had a career in the private sector, where he was well-regarded for his hard work and dedication. Despite his success in the corporate world, Tony felt a calling to make a more direct and meaningful impact in the community, which led him to focus on humanitarian efforts.

Founding of Willing Hearts

In 2003, Tony Tay, together with his Catholic friends, founded Willing Hearts with the initial goal of distributing unsold bread to homeless individuals in Singapore. The organization began as a small-scale effort but quickly grew, thanks to the support of dedicated volunteers and donors. Over the years, Willing Hearts expanded its mission and activities to serve free, nutritious meals to low-income individuals, migrant workers, and other vulnerable groups in the community.

Willing Hearts has since become a recognized Institution of Public Character (IPC) charity in Singapore, and it now operates a large kitchen that prepares and distributes thousands of meals every day. The organization’s success is built on a foundation of volunteerism and community collaboration, and it continues to be a beacon of hope for many in need.

Philosophy and Impact

Tony Tay believes in the power of selflessness, compassion, and community-driven action. His approach to philanthropy emphasizes the importance of treating every individual with dignity and respect, regardless of their background or circumstances. Through Willing Hearts, Tony has created a platform for individuals to come together and make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are less fortunate.

The organization has inspired many people to get involved in social services, and its extensive outreach programs have made a significant impact on addressing food insecurity and poverty in Singapore.

Personal Life

Tony Tay is married to Mary Ho, and together they have three children: Alphonsus Tay, Aloysius Tay, and Anne Tay. His family has been a strong source of support throughout his work with Willing Hearts, with Tony often expressing that their encouragement and love have been vital to his success. The Tay family is known for their deep sense of community and commitment to charitable causes.

Legacy

Tony Tay’s legacy is one of compassion, selflessness, and an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. Through Willing Hearts, he has not only transformed the lives of thousands of individuals but also set an example for others to follow in making a positive difference in their communities. His work continues to inspire volunteers, donors, and philanthropists in Singapore and beyond.

See Also

• Willing Hearts
• List of non-profit organizations in Singapore