The articles are misleading however. The taxi driver has since clarified that he only earned $7,000 once and his usual remuneration is $4,000 to $5000. After some sleuthing, I also discovered that $5,000 as a lorry driver is the exception rather than the norm and even then, similar to a $5,000 a month taxi driver, involves very long hours of work. For the dish-washing job, I had the chance to speak with an NTUC Union staff, who actually put forward many workers for the position subsequent to the newspaper article: not a single one got the job.
While I do believe that most people should be able to earn a decent living in Singapore, there are unfortunately some people who fall through the cracks. Many people who face constant financial difficulties are stuck in low-wage jobs, jobs that pay around $1,000 or less, as they do not possess the skills to get a higher pay one. The majority are unable to converse in English, let alone reading or writing in English. They certainly wouldn't be able to understand this article, which is where you come in. Here are 3 things you can do for these folks in 2013!
Encourage Skills Upgrading
There are a number of Continuing Education & Training (CET) Centres who offer training courses that are 90% - 95% subsidised by the Government (click here for the list of centres). Notably, Mendaki offers a 45-hour conversational English course at just $15 after subsidy. The course is held during weekends and the exact timing depends on the participants.Some people may find it hard to attend a course, especially when they are already so tired from their struggles trying to make ends meet. Others think they are simply too old to learn new things. Encouragement and support from friends go a long way. On a side note, I used to have a 72 year-old course-mate so one can never be too old to learn!
Sell Flat or Relocate
Some people who are living in poverty may actually be asset-rich but cash-poor. Instead of living hand to mouth, they can sell their asset, free up some cash and downgrade by renting or buying a smaller flat.These folks are probably not aware, but with HDB flat prices at an all-time high, it's a good time for them to sell their HDB flats soon. Alternatively, cash-strapped elderly (55 and above) who own flats can also sell the tail end of their HDB lease back to the Government under the Lease Buyback Scheme (LBS). Just last Thursday, the Government announced enhancements to the LBS together with the Silver Housing Bonus (elderly home-owners basically get $20,000 cash for downgrading). The improved schemes will be implemented from 1 February 2013 so the best time for these elderly to sell will be shortly after the implementation date. The public can call 1800 555 6363 for more information on these schemes.
For poor and needy Singaporeans, who do not own a flat, monthly rental of a 2-room HDB for poor Singaporeans can be as low as $50 - you can find more details on subsidised HDB rental flats here.
Seek Financial Assistance
For people without flats, financial assistance plans aplenty is a bit of a double-edged sword. Finding the appropriate financial aid may not be easy. I found this out first hand from asking about schemes for a friend, and my friend's case is supposed to be pretty straightforward. Regardless, help is there if you look close enough.A first step would be to call the Community Chest hotline at 1800 210 2600. Community Chest will then be able to point you to specific charities or government bodies that may be able to offer assistance. Individual Family Service Centres also have schemes that can be found on their respective websites. The applicant should be completely honest when applying for aid as non-disclosure can lead to a lengthy approval process and even jeopardise their chances. For low-wage workers, the Workfare Income Supplement (WIS) Scheme (details can be found here) is a decent financial assistance scheme.
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