Come across beggars? Call ComCare hotline

The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) officers conduct checks on beggars and vagrants when they receive feedback on the ComCare Call hotline at 1800-222-0000.

From January to last month, 38 beggars were picked up by the ministry. Twenty-two of them were Singaporeans and 16 were foreigners.

Last year, MSF's officers picked up 53 beggars.

Said the spokesman: "Locals would be assessed on their social background to see how best they can be assisted.

"Those without family, financial means and accommodation may temporarily reside in a welfare home while social workers work with them on alternative accommodations and other needs.

"Foreigners will be handed over to the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority," he said.

Singaporeans with financial difficulties can approach MSF's Social Service Offices, Family Service Centres or grassroots organisations for help.

There are also voluntary welfare organisations, religious groups and civic organisations that provide various forms of assistance to the needy.

People who come across beggars should call the ComCare Call hotline.

This article was first published on July 15, 2014.
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