Children’s Aid Society raises S$250,000 to support children, youth in need

NON-PROFIT organisation Children’s Aid Society (CAS) raised S$251,329 at its annual charity gala on Friday (Sep 13) to support children and youth who have faced adverse life circumstances, such as abuse and neglect.

Dine for Good 2024 took place at Shangri-La Singapore, with Minister for National Development and Minister-in-Charge of Social Services Integration Desmond Lee as the guest of honour. He is the patron of CAS.

The funds raised will go towards operational expenses, such as staff salaries.

Alvin Goh, executive director of CAS, said the charity provides a “very high-touch service”, with staff providing “round-the-clock” care at Melrose Home, a residential home under CAS for those aged seven to 21. 

Transitioning to independent living

The funds will support the Thrive21 programme, which provides after-care services and financial assistance to youth transitioning to independent living. They will be supported in areas such as education, finances, housing, living expenses and other aspects of adult life.

Due to their background, Goh said, many of them do not have the independent living skills that people are usually taught by their parents. 

“Not only do (the youth) need to live on their own and live among people, they also need to negotiate relationships. They need to know how to manage their own emotions so that they can make good decisions,” he noted.

At Melrose Home, about three young people age out of care every year.

Some of the funds will also go towards Melrose Care, CAS’ community agency that provides therapy support not only to Melrose Home’s residents but also to caregivers. 

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Goh added: “These kids have been traumatised and abused… There is the impact of trauma on them, and many of them have mental health issues, even at a very young age. So therapy is important.”

In 2023 alone, Melrose Care welcomed 197 clients, bringing the total number of clients to 332.

Minister Lee said: “Melrose Care has forged strong partnerships with family service centres, schools, hospitals, foster care agencies and other residential homes, to expand access to essential mental health services for those seeking support.”

Additionally, CAS will be rebuilding Melrose Village in Clementi. The charity will build smaller living spaces for the residents, such as hostel facilities that will house around four people each, with CAS staff continuing to provide round-the-clock care. The youth currently live in dormitories. 

Goh said this upcoming arrangement will provide a more “conducive environment” for them. 

CAS has so far raised S$16.5 million for this rebuilding project, and will continue to raise the remainder of S$5.5 million.