Singapore flag, no furniture: Offers of help pour in for uncle living in spartan rental flat

[UPDATE Nov 12] In response to AsiaOne's queries, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) said that the man has been supported by ComCare since 2012, and he's currently receiving long-term assistance for his daily expenses.

"MSF's Social Service Office (SSO) and ZhengHua Constituency Office have also recently reached out to the uncle to understand his current situation and assess if he requires further assistance. "

The uncle also reiterated that he does not require furniture or appliances in his flat, and declined the constituency office's offer of house refurbishment services.

"Our SSO colleagues will continue to work closely with our community partners to ensure his well-being."

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A TV, fridge and bed are what most people deem as necessities in their homes, but a man has been living without such comfort.

While distributing food and ang baos to needy families living in rental flats along Senja Road last Friday (Nov 6), a group of volunteers met an uncle who lives alone in a spartan home.

In the photos they shared on Facebook, his belongings can be seen sitting neatly on the floor of his one-room flat.

"Felt sad for this Indian uncle who proudly displays our national flag in his home but there is no chair, table, TV, fridge nor a mattress inside," Gilbert Goh wrote.

Offers of help soon poured in, with many netizens wanting to donate furniture and home appliances to help the man live more comfortably. One even said they'd help fully furnish the man's flat.

However, he might not accept these kind offers.

According to Mustsharenews, the uncle told volunteers that he prefers not to have furniture at home, adding that he sleeps on the floor due to an allergic reaction to mattresses.

Since he doesn't have many belongings, the man has opted to keep them in storage boxes for easy access.

When volunteers visited him again during the weekend, they brought him food and festive snacks.

ALSO READ: Volunteers hand out blankets and food to elderly sleeping on the streets

lamminlee@asiaone.com