For 13 years, Gabriella (25), Gio (19), and Gia (17) have called Singapore home. They moved here from Indonesia in 2012 with their mother, chasing the promise of a better life and education.

They’ve grown up here. From kindergarten to polytechnic. School became the place where they made friends, found purpose, and built a life they hoped would last.

But everything changed when Gabriella turned 21. Their mother’s Long-Term Visit Pass (LTVP) was no longer renewed. She had to return to Indonesia, leaving the three sisters to depend solely on each other.

Today, Gabriella cares for her younger sisters while working to keep the household running. Despite applying for PR, her application was rejected. She continues to live in Singapore on an LTVP.

“We’ve been here since K2 and Primary 2,” Gabriella says. “It’s just on paper we’re not Singaporean. But this is home.”

A Dream on Hold

Gabriella holds a diploma in Digital Media. Gio is studying English Theatre at NAFA. Gia, the youngest, just completed her Polytechnic Foundation Programme and has been offered a place in the Common Business Programme at a local Polytechnic.

But their family has hit a financial roadblock.

In September 2024, Gabriella lost her full-time job. She’s now working part-time at a supermarket, while Gio and Gia help cover expenses by working as waitresses. Even with all three contributing, it’s not enough.

Although the sisters secured a loan to cover 75% of Gia’s school fees, it doesn’t cover the Foundation Programme — a portion classified as a “privilege” and not eligible for loan support.

They now face a shortfall of $11,560, due by 14 April. If it isn’t paid, Gia’s Student Pass will be cancelled. She won’t be allowed to enrol in Year 1. She may even be asked to leave Singapore.

“My friends are here. It feels like home,” Gia says. “I just need to get through this.”

A Window of Possibility

Gia’s Polytechnic has confirmed that she will be able to enrol once full payment is made, even though her Student Pass has been cancelled. This means the sooner the funds are raised, the sooner Gia can return to Singapore and begin her studies.

Ray of Hope is fundraising $11,560 to help Gia start school and keep the siblings together.

“No matter how hard things get, we’re grateful to be studying here,” Gabriella says. “We’ve come this far. This isn’t the time to stop.”

Help Keep This Family Together

Your kindness could be the difference between staying and leaving. Between building a future here, or starting over somewhere completely unfamiliar.

Please give what you can. Every contribution brings Gia closer to staying in school, and staying with her sisters.