Low-Income Households in S’pore Struggling to Make Ends Meet

When I was younger, my parents would always bring me to McDonald’s during the weekends for Big Breakfast and I would happily gobble down my scrambled eggs and sausage muffin.

One day, I noticed a dad with his 2 kids, sharing one Big Breakfast meal. He was portioning the food carefully, making sure that both his kids have an equal portion of food. But he left none for himself.

I got curious and asked, “Why doesn’t he just order 3 servings?”

My parents shushed me, and told me that maybe he’s trying to give his best to his kids despite his tight financial.

Disclaimer: This is a true story. Except that I don’t remember if it was a dad or mum.

Lower Income Group Spending More Than What They’ve Earned

Every so often, many of us tend to forget how lucky we are, especially when our parents are able to afford most of the things that we wanted.

We deny the fact that there are families who are struggling to make a living and focus on the things that we could not get our hands on.

A recent Household Expenditure Survey by SingStat has found out that the average income of a resident household in Singapore has been rising faster than their spending.

Despite that, one particular data that stands out was that the bottom 20% of household are spending an average of $335 more than what they are earning per month.

In 2012/2013, the same group was reported to experience an average monthly shortfall of $266.

Having Troubles Reaching Out To Lower-Income Households

As far as I understand, Singapore does have quite a number of schemes and subsidies for those in need. Albeit certain strict criteria, these schemes do come in handy for many families.

However, it was noticed that the Government is facing difficulties reaching out to these families in need, who either appear to not know about the available subsidies or that they refused to get help from the Government.

I don’t blame the people who are lacking knowledge of the available schemes and subsidies though. I wouldn’t have known about it too, at least not until I am writing this article.

Water Supply Cut For More Than 3 Years

According to CNA, Madam Rosmah (not her real name), who worked as a cleaner, takes home a monthly income of $700. However, their monthly expenses for groceries, medical bills, transport etc. can easily hit up to $1000.

Having to repay some of the debts that she owed her friend, it was impossible for Madam Rosmah to keep up with her household bills, resulting in their water supply to be cut off more than 3 years ago.

Government Help Available

If you didn’t already know, organizations such as the Chinese Development Assistance Council (CDAC), Islamic Religious Council of Singapore and Singapore Indian Development Association do provide help for families in need.

Ministry of Social and Family Development has also introduced ComCare where they provide temporary help to support individuals and families.

In case you’re lazy, I have cut out the brochure for your reference:

Don’t be shy and click onto this link here if you are unclear of the assistance that they provide too.

Or if you know of someone who is facing some difficulties recently, and think that this scheme might be helpful for them, don’t hesitate to direct them to the website!