Dedicated funding of 7.25 million raised in 2023 for the U Care Fund proves crucial in aiding lower-income union members and their families in Singapore amidst rising living costs and economic uncertainty.
As we brave the challenges of an unstable economy and increasing living costs, help is always at hand, particularly for lower-income union members in Singapore. In 2023, the NTUC U Care Fund, a beacon of hope for many struggling families, has managed to raise a hefty sum of 7.25 million to aid union members and their loved ones.
Quoting from the original source The Straits Times, “The fund continues to assist lower-income union members against a backdrop of continued economic uncertainty and rising cost of living.” Such financial assistance can significantly alleviate the financial burden of around 10,000 union members, enabling them to cover the cost of daily essentials and support their school-going children.
Established in 2009 amidst the global financial crisis, the U Care Fund continues its mission today, providing targeted assistance to vulnerable members in need. “While NTUC continues to help workers improve their wages and work prospects, we are also stepping up efforts to better support the welfare of our vulnerable workers, especially those who face sudden loss of income due to unforeseen circumstances,” quoted Mr Yong, who is an assistant secretary-general at NTUC
Furthermore, in 2023, the NTUC Care Fund introduced additional financial assistance through the stage of e-vouchers, a program that has been expected to benefit about 10,000 members and their children. “The NTUC Care Fund e-Vouchers program returned in 2023, with a total of 3 million set aside to help union members stretch their dollar,” reported The Straits Times. The e-vouchers offer up to $100 per member for grocery purchases and an extra $100 per school-going child under the same roof, bestowing tangible aid to those who need it most.
In addition to fulfilling daily needs, the U Care Fund has also stretched its arm to provide one-off disbursements for around 7,500 eligible members in 2023. Depending on the circumstances, this financial support can amount to either $60 or $150. Beyond the financial component, the U Care Fund underscores its commitment to a nurturing society by supporting educational awards for union members’ children, community service projects spearheaded by the Labour Movement, and elderly care programs.
These initiatives could not have been possible without the collective contributions of various organizations, including the Singapore Labour Foundation, NTUC Social Enterprises, NTUC-affiliated unions, and associations. In 2023 alone, these entities contributed a total of $4.2 million to the fund, a testament to the collaborative endeavour towards creating a more financially secure society for all.
With heightened digitalization in recent years, U Care Fund has ventured into the digital sphere, reaching out to potential donors via social media platforms like Facebook, and trusted crowdfunding websites like Giving.sg. Physical events such as the U Care Fund Charity Golf and Dinner further exemplifies the fund’s innovative approach. NTUC U Care Fund is indeed a strong pillar for our union members amidst challenging times, making the prospect of tomorrow much brighter.
