South West CDC launches grant to reach out to needy

SINGAPORE - The South West Community Development Council (CDC) launched a $360,000 outreach grant yesterday.

Grassroots organisations in the district - which includes Hong Kah North SMC, Jurong GRC, West Coast GRC and Chua Chu Kang GRC - can use the fund in the coming year for programmes that help spread awareness of the social assistance schemes available for residents.

"At some of our feedback sessions with residents... participants shared that there are many assistance schemes available, but many who need help may not be aware of them," said South West District Mayor Amy Khor.

She added that the grant will enable grassroots organisations to more effectively reach out to vulnerable residents, identify issues and provide timely help or referrals to "ensure that no one in our community falls through the cracks".

A training session for grassroots leaders on how to approach and befriend residents during house visits was held during the launch at Hong Kah North Community Club yesterday.

The leaders were also given brochures listing the different help schemes available, for them to distribute to residents.

The training session and brochures are examples of what the grant can be used for, added Dr Khor, who is also Senior Minister of State for Health and Manpower.

The grant will commence next month, with $20,000 available to each of the 18 divisions in the district.

It is part of the WeCare @ South West Initiative, where the CDC has committed more than $2.5 million annually for the next three years to strengthen the social safety net in the district.

mellinjm@sph.com.sg

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