Events

Empowering Families, Building Futures 

While Singapore has done well in sustaining social mobility compared to other advanced economies, we do face challenges such as an ageing society and slowing economy (Ministry of Social and Family Development, 2022). Without targeted interventions, vulnerable families may struggle to overcome barriers to upward mobility. Addressing these challenges requires sustained efforts and innovative programmes that support families holistically, focusing on both immediate needs and long-term development.  

During the event, donors learnt about three programmes that seek to improve the well-being of lower-income families and their children: Tak Takut Kids Club by 3Pumpkins provides a safe hangout for vulnerable children in public rental estates. The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories helps incarcerated parents reconnect with their children, while the ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance supports families in managing their debt. These are just a few of the many programmes under the Collective for a Stronger Society, a five-year long effort which seeks to provide wraparound support for Singapore’s most vulnerable families.

1. Building Socio-Emotional Resilience in Vulnerable Children: Tak Takut Kids Club (TTKC) by 3Pumpkins
   Ms Lin Shiyun, Founder and Executive Director of 3Pumpkins, started TTKC as a social experiment after three years of interacting with vulnerable children. She saw the need for a safe community space for them to learn and grow.

Located at Boon Lay Drive, Tak Takut Kids Club (TTKC) is a lively community space that supports the socio-emotional growth of children in rental flats. "Tak Takut," meaning "don't be afraid" in Malay, reflects the club's mission to provide a secure, nurturing environment where children engage in art, cooking, gardening, sports, and free play. TTKC has become a second home for these children, fostering trust and community and encouraging them to connect with others.

Ms. Lin Shiyun, Founder and Executive Director of 3Pumpkins, explained, “TTKC is not just a drop-in center; it is a place where children feel safe and supported. Our goal is to establish a child-centric social support system that empowers each child to reach their full potential.” She added that it is akin to joining a ‘good gang’ for these children and youth who seek acceptance and a sense of belonging.

Watch this video to find out more about TTKC:

2. Wraparound Support for Incarcerated Parents and Their Children: The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories

Ms. Saleemah Ismail, Founder and Executive Director of New Life Stories, highlighted that 21% of children with incarcerated parents end up in prison as adults, stressing the need for early family intervention.

The Family Strengthening Programme by New Life Stories offers comprehensive support to children and their incarcerated parents, focusing on Befriending, Incare, and Family Care. This programme allows parents to connect with their children through stories and messages, creating a foundation for rebuilding relationships. “Our mission is to break cycles of intergenerational social disadvantage by supporting families impacted by incarceration to rebuild their lives and strengthen family bonds. For example, our befriending weekly programme has contributed to an 81% improvement in literacy levels and 72% in self-confidence with the children that we work with,” Ms Saleemah said. 

Watch how the Family Strengthening Programme transformed a mother's life and helped her to reconnect her with her children:

3. Easing Financial Stress for Lower-Income Families: The ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance by MSF

The donor learning trip highlighted the essential support that lower-income families need to gain stability and enhance their quality of life

The ComLink+ Progress Package on Debt Clearance assists lower-income families with children in public rental flats by providing crucial debt relief. According to a study by the Social Service Research Centre (SSR) at the National University of Singapore (NUS), debt relief reduces mental strain, improving psychological well-being and cognitive function (NUS, 2019). This support empowers individuals to make sound financial decisions, aiding in their long-term journey out of poverty. Ultimately, the programme aims to foster stability, self-reliance, and social mobility.

More Than Just an Educational Experience

By witnessing the transformative impact of these programmes, donors were inspired to contribute to this collective effort that goes beyond mere financial support. It is about building a future for Singapore where every family, regardless of their socio-economic background, has the opportunity to thrive.

Join us in this mission to create lasting change. Together, we can break the cycle of poverty, uplift the social well-being of lower-income families, and build a stronger, more inclusive Singapore. By starting a donor-advised fund with CFS, you can make a profound difference, turning hope into reality for those who need it most.Get involved today and be a part of this transformative journey.

References:

• Ministry of Social and Family Development. (2022). Improving the lives of low-income and vulnerable families in Singapore. https://www.msf.gov.sg/docs/default-source/resources-document/improving-the-lives-of-low-income-and-vulnerable-families-in-singaporeaa9055cf8ac54de5b01b7f3999e451fe.pdf?sfvrsn=5f5518d4_2
• National University of Singapore. (2019, March 26). Debt reduction improves psychological and cognitive function, enabling better decision-making. Retrieved from https://news.nus.edu.sg/debt-reduction-improves-psychological-and-cognitive-function-enabling-better-decision-making/