Times may be challenging, but together, there is nothing that Singapore cannot overcome.
From dealing with anxiety on the current Covid-19 outbreak, to schemes on financial assistance for Singaporeans and Permanent Resident (PR) who have lost their jobs due to the virus, there is support for those in need.
We have compiled some of the links from the Government for your easy reference.
Financial Support
- Temporary Relief Fund
Finance Minister Heng Swee Keat introduced this fund in the Solidarity Budget to further assist those who are unemployed due to Covid-19. Individuals will receive $500 one-off assistance and it is only applicable in April 2020 at your nearest Social Service Office (SSO) or Community Centre (CC). You can find out more information here: https://www.msf.gov.sg/assistance/Pages/covid19relief.aspx#TRF
- The COVID-19 Support Grant
To help Singaporeans cope with finances during this period, this grant provides financial assistance of $800 for three months for individuals who have lost their jobs due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Application opens from 1st May 2020 and individuals may apply at the nearest SSO or CC. You can find out more information here: https://www.msf.gov.sg/assistance/Pages/covid19relief.aspx#CSG
- The Courage Fund
This fund is for households members, healthcare workers, frontline workers, community volunteers who have contracted the Covid-19 virus. Individuals can apply at the nearest SSO after they have completed their quarantine, stay home notice or mandatory Leave of Absence. You can find out more information here: https://www.ncss.gov.sg/thecouragefund
For more information on financial support or other forms of support measures, visit Gov.sg Support Go Where
Essentials
The Infocomm Media Authority Development (IMDA) has a really handy guide to everything essential and they’re available online, as part of their Stay Healthy, Go Digital campaign. From groceries to electronics, check out their extensive list of merchants.
IMDA – GoWhere
Things to do at home
When boredom strikes from observing the Circuit Breaker at home, why not attempt the #StayatHomeChallenge? SG United shares four ways you can make full use of your time during this month-long ban – Thrive, Connect, Help Others and Get Help.
Mental Health
Have you checked in on a loved one today? In this difficult period, some of us have it harder than others. It helps to be extra kind to one another as we face this unprecedented time. If you or anyone you know is struggling with anxiety or their wellbeing, worrying about their jobs and future, share with them the following numbers that they can reach out to for counselling. Most importantly, let them know that they are not alone.
- National CARE Hotline (24-HR): 6202 6868
- Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800-283 7019
- Samaritans of Singapore: 1800-221 4444
- Fei Yue Community Services
- Care Corner Counselling Centre (Mandarin available): 1800-353 5800
Abuse Helpline
There has been an increase of domestic abuse worldwide since Covid-19. As much as it is a stressful phase for everyone, there is no reason valid enough for any kind of abuse. Let’s continue to look out for one another and if you know someone who is currently a victim, share with them the following numbers for help. As mentioned by SPS for Social and Family Development, Assoc Prof Faishal Ibrahim in his Facebook post, “the Ministry of Social and Family Development, Singapore Police Force and Social Service Agencies are ready to help and support you.”
- PAVE Integrated Services for Individual and Family Protection Specialist Centre: 6555 0390
- TRANS SAFE Centre: 6449 9088
- Project StART: 6476 1482
- Big Love Child Protection Specialist Centre: 6445 0400
- HEART @ Fei Yue Child Protection Specialist Centre: 6819 9170
- ComCare Hotline: 1800-222 0000
We can do this, Singapore. Together, we can overcome! All the helpline and links have been consolidated in the Virtual Resource Pack for download.
Share it with your friends and family and forward it to someone who needs it.
