Update: A sponsor has reached out to Ray of Hope to sponsor a fridge for Mdm Siti’s family. Hence, we will be increasing her monthly assistance to $452 instead of $370.

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The Struggle

It was not an easy decision for Mdm Siti to step out of an unhappy marriage and to bring up her children on her own. When the case workers met her, she recounted how her ex-husband has allegedly defaulted close to $32,000 of maintenance even with a court order, and how it took a toll on her emotionally which in turn affected her health as well.

Mdm Siti’s current husband has recently started work as a part-time security guard and has yet to receive his first pay with an expected gross salary of $1,240. He was previously working as an airplane repairman until he collapsed due to chest pains caused by heart issues. Mdm Siti is currently not working, due to the frequent numbness that she experiences on both hands. She told us that she used to work as a screening officer with a salary of $1,300, but barely three months into her work the pain caused by her nerve issues resulted in her employment coming to a halt when she had to be hospitalised for her condition. In addition, Mdm Siti also suffers from heart issues, diabetes and bilateral frozen shoulders.

Help Needed – Give Hope

Mdm Siti has two children from her first marriage. Her 20-year-old son is currently serving National Service, while her 17-year old daughter Alysya was diagnosed with Femoral-Facial Syndrome, a rare congenital disorder which results in underdeveloped thigh bones. The past few years have been challenging for Mdm Siti, as Alysya’s medical conditions have resulted in countless rejections from mainstream schools, and she also struggles to make ends meet each month. Mdm Siti also has a 9-year-old daughter who is currently attending primary school.

Mdm Siti confided in us that she deeply regrets having given up on the follow-up review appointments for Alysya more than 7 years ago due to her financial constraints at the time. Alysya was previously working in a F&B restaurant as well as a laundry shop, but she has stopped working due to her physical limitations. She is now enrolled in a special needs school. Mdm Siti is worried about the progression pathway for her daughter who will turn 18 next year, as she will need to be placed for employment then.

Mdm Siti has also requested for assistance on getting a new washing machine and fridge as their current one has broken down.

Financial Breakdown

Ray of Hope would like to raise $2,540 for the following:

One-time purchase:

1. Washing machine $280
2. Fridge $410

Monthly assistance of $370 for 5 months:

1. Children’s transport fees ($80)
2. Children’s school allowances ($140)
3. Groceries ($150)

It is not easy being the caregiver for a special needs child along with two other children while struggling with health issues, but the amount of love Mdm Siti shows for them touched our hearts and we believe she can do it with your kind donations!

*SSO was previously assisting Mdm Siti with her rent, town council and utility payments. However, her assistance is ending in July. Her MUIS assistance also ended in May 2019.