Be Good: 6 Great Singapore charities to give your time or money
to
It's certainly nothing to be proud of: Singapore has one
of the highest income inequality gaps in the world. And when
we're making headlines for being the world's most expensive city,
or home to the world's most profitable nightclub, it'd be easy to
think we don't care all that much about the less well-off folks
here. But that belies that fact that there are a host of charities
doing some truly great work. Here we pick six to whom you can
volunteer your time, or simply donate some money.
Willing Hearts:
This volunteer-based organization helps the needy and
underprivileged. They run a variety of initiatives, but perhaps the
most important is the distribution of free meals and water on the
streets of Singapore every Friday night.
Riding for the
Disabled:
The people behind this charity believe that just because disabled
people can’t do everything, doesn’t mean they shouldn’t do anything
at all. The initiative provides horseback riding therapy programs
for disabled children and adults. They are always keen on
‘sidewalkers’ who guide the horses and disabled riders around the
stable and in doing so provide therapeutic stimulation.
United Medicare
Centre:
This elderly folks' home is constantly looking for volunteers who
will help with tasks like haircutting, gardening, sewing, cooking,
and a variety of other activities. The center looks for those who
will befriend the elderly (some of whom have dementia or
Alzheimer's) to give them the compassion and care they deserve.
Yellow
Ribbon Project:
Help ex-offenders overcome their past and give them second lease of
life. Often, their families are marginalized for being associated
with repentant ex-offenders. Your money can help rehabilitate and
initiate these people back into society.
Down's Syndrome
Association:
Help those with Down's Syndrome better integrate into society by
donating to this worthy cause. Not only do they focus on social
integration and equal opportunities, they also provide support for
families for the lifelong journey of coping with the
disadvantage.
Make-A-Wish Foundation:
This well-known foundation helps children with life-threatening
medical conditions. Your money helps make their wishes come true
and gives them strength to keep fighting.
There are many, many more charities in need of support. You can
find out more at SG Gives; or tell us in the
comments which charities you admire and we'll follow up in a future
story.
IS