CHARITIES IN SINGAPORE RESPOND TO COVID-19 CRISIS

(Singapore, 6 April, 2020) In the midst of the global pandemic, charities in Singapore are responding in the best way they can - fundraising for those most in need.

The breadth of the causes shows how impactful COVID-19 has been to many different groups of people, with fundraisers set up to help those with kidney problems, low-income family groups and the hard-of-hearing community.

Nearly S$1 million has already been raised (at the time of writing) to combat the COVID-19 crisis via GIVE.asia, here are just some of the fundraisers in Singapore you can support.

Beyond Social Services 

A Family Assistance Fund, all money raised is being redistributed to support families whose incomes have been affected by job loss or reduced hours. Visit campaign at https://give.asia/campaign/covid-19-response-fund

Singapore Red Cross 

The Singapore Red Cross, in partnership with GIVE.asia, has set up a fund to support the elderly. Food packages, household items and medicine will be provided to vulnerable individuals from April-June. Funds will also be used to reopen referral agencies that otherwise can’t afford to provide this service. Visit campaign at https://redcross.give.asia/campaign/can-you-help-our-local-elderly-during-covid-19#/

SADeaf

The Singapore Association for the Deaf and hard-of-hearing, in partnership with GIVE.asia, is raising money to support the income of frontline workers like speech therapists, note-takers and sign language interpreters who must continue working on behalf of deaf clients. SADeaf has been fundraising for the deaf community of Singapore since 1955. Visit campaign at https://give.asia/campaign/covid-19-crisis-in-singapore#/

National Kidney Foundation

The Singapore National Kidney Foundation, in partnership with GIVE.asia, is raising money to fund case-specific precautionary measures in 37 dialysis centres in Singapore.

All funds will go directly to the support and wellbeing of 3,800 patients who face extra risks due to their weaker immune systems. Items such as extra hand sanitisers, face masks and cleaning equipment will have a tangible impact on the health of those patients. Visit campaign at https://nkf.give.asia/campaign/fight-against-the-covid-19-pandemic-together#/

Shan You

Shan You, in partnership with GIVE.asia, is raising money to support needy clients from all walks of life, including those with mental health and anxiety issues, and families surviving on food rations.

Shan You has also seen lower donations for their food redistribution service, directed at low-income families and other vulnerable people, so donations will also be directed here. Visit campaign at https://give.asia/campaign/support-us-to-surge-through-covid-19#/

Aseem K Thakur, co-founder at GIVE.asia, said:

“In these times of uncertainty, it is more important than ever to be compassionate and kind. It is heartwarming to see the nation coming together to help charities and their beneficiaries."

“We are committed to doing our best to support our charity partners and community in these testing times. We are confident that we as a society will come out on the other side of this as more compassionate, resilient and united.”

Ibraham B., a donor to the Red Cross fundraiser, said:

"I donate because sometimes we have to step back and be pragmatic about the situation. I can adapt and do without this money but it certainly will make an impact for the elderly who are suffering from Covid19; it could be my parents." 

Another, anonymous donor said:

"I donated so that the underprivileged can have food and feel loved by fellow Singaporeans."

Meanwhile, taxi-operator Grab is offering free rides to any health workers travelling to and from work, and Razer has donated 1m surgical masks to support the cause.

Members of the public are advised to abide by all precautionary measures, while any and all contributions to charitable causes are greatly appreciated.