Homelessness is still a problem in Singapore. (Photo: Timothy Sim)
From 2013 to 2015, the Ministry for Social and Family Development (MSF) assisted 543 individuals and 374 households who needed a roof over their heads, reported Channel NewsAsia.
Some disposed of their flat due to debt or divorce, while others could not continue living with family members due to behavioural problems or strained relationships, according to Parliamentary Secretary for Social and Family Development, Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, during a parliamentary session on Tuesday (1 March).
Of the persons and families aided by the MSF, around 50 percent applied for a HDB rental flat, but only half qualified.
Nevertheless, most of those who were not eligible for a rental unit had other housing options. For instance, some already owned a flat or had the means to buy one, while others had relatives willing to take them in.
Faishal explained that the HDB, MSF and social service agencies team up to provide the homeless with alternative accommodation, with a focus on families with young children and elderly dependants as they have urgent needs.
“For some families and individuals who have no other place to stay, MSF works with social service agencies to identify temporary shelter options while they find other accommodation. We also address their other needs, which may include counselling, financial assistance, employment and other factors that contribute to their housing instability.”
Furthermore, the Family Service Centres, Social Service Offices and the HDB Branches in all towns work together to identify and support individuals and families at risk of homelessness. For example, families struggling to service their mortgage loans could get a combination of financial help, guidance and emotional support.
Romesh Navaratnarajah, Senior Editor at PropertyGuru, edited this story. To contact him about this or other stories email romesh@propertyguru.com.sg
