When Mr Very Agung looks at his two children, he sees the reason he keeps going—despite the weight he has been carrying alone. 

At 50, he is a single father raising his 18-year-old daughter and 14-year-old son, Erik. The family originally came from Indonesia and now holds Singapore Permanent Resident ® status. Since the divorce two years ago, the children’s mother has not contributed financially, leaving Mr Very to shoulder everything on his own.

“It was a difficult divorce, but my children believed in me and chose to stay with me. So, I have to care for them,” he shared quietly.

To keep their household afloat, he juggles multiple part-time jobs—from restaurant shifts to teaching coding and music. But even working tirelessly has not been enough. His earnings are stretched thin, especially after Erik’s school fees increased and his Debt Repayment Scheme (DRS) began in December 2024. These debts were incurred during his marriage when plans fell through, leaving him with the financial aftermath. Still, he has been diligently keeping up with his DRS payments to protect his credit rating and safeguard the family’s PR stability. 

Trying Everything, Yet Falling Through the Gaps

Despite his continuous efforts, unexpected challenges have created a financial crisis that the helpless father cannot overcome alone. A sudden drop in his teaching hours recently slashed the income he depends on. At the same time, living expenses have risen, and the family is still rebuilding from years of instability. 

Erik’s school has issued a firm deadline: if his outstanding SGD 6,973 in fees is not paid by 26 November 2025, he will be terminated from his Secondary School. This would abruptly disrupt the life of a boy who is trying his best to stay on track. Erik is a hardworking Secondary 2 student and school is not just a place of learning for him—it is his hope and chance to break out of the cycle his family has been trapped in.

His teacher shared, “Erik is a remarkable young learner whose dedication and talent have already set him apart. At just 12 years old, he achieved the distinction of being among the Top 10 PSLE scorers at his primary school—a testament to his hard work, resilience, and love for learning.”

Helping Erik Stay in School

“I appeal to the Ray of Hope community to be Erik’s lifeline,” Mr Very says. “Please help me ensure Erik can return to his school next year. By securing his place in school today, you are investing directly in the potential and promise of his tomorrow.”

The funds raised through this campaign will go directly toward paying Erik’s outstanding $6,973 in school fees. By covering this urgent amount, you will prevent his immediate termination and allow him to continue his education while the family pursues long-term assistance for future fees.

*The campaign goal includes a 1.8% payment processing fee.