A Father’s Unyielding Love and Struggle

Campaign Update as at 18 March 2025: Iskandar’s Resilience Through Uncertainty

With Hari Raya approaching, the reality is difficult. There is little to spare for celebrations. But Iskandar is making do with what he has, prioritizing essentials for his children.

Last month, Iskandar received a difficult piece of news. His job had been made redundant, with his last day on 28 February 2025. He had been given just a two-week notice. As the sole breadwinner, losing his income so close to Ramadhan, then, was a heavy blow. Despite the setback, Iskandar remained strong for his family, focusing on job applications in the security line. Unfortunately, the search has been challenging, with no positive updates so far.

Even in hardship, Iskandar continues to give. He recently opened his doors to Ray of Hope staff and volunteers, welcoming us for Iftar with his family. His generosity and resilience stand out, even as he navigates financial strain.

Your support can help lighten this burden, ensuring that his family has the lifeline that they need during this time. Every contribution makes a difference.

Iskandar, a devoted father of seven, dreams of a future where he can spend more quality time with his children, aged 4 to 20. For now, that dream feels out of reach as he works tirelessly six days a week, 12 hours per shift, as a security officer. While the job provides stability, it lacks essential benefits like paid leave and medical coverage.

Since entering the security line in 2016, Iskandar has been the backbone of his family. But his responsibilities don’t end there. He is deeply devoted to his 70-year-old mother, who has faced ongoing mental health challenges and was recently diagnosed with blood deficiency issues. After her hospitalisation in June 2024, her condition worsened, requiring frequent visits and daily caregiving support from Iskandar and his wife. To compound their worries, the doctor indicated that she is likely showing signs of dementia, leaving the family with an unsettling uncertainty about what lies ahead.

A Family Pulling Together

Iskandar’s wife plays an indispensable role in holding the family together. As the primary caregiver for their seven children and Iskandar’s mother, she manages the household, cooks meals, monitors medication, and ensures everyone is cared for. While she would love to contribute financially, her caregiving duties make seeking employment impossible.

Iskandar dreams of improving their circumstances. He plans to undergo two training modules in February and March 2025, a necessary step toward obtaining certification and securing a full-time position with better pay.

A Challenging Crossroads

However, Iskandar’s job as a daily-rated worker poses a significant challenge. Each day he takes off for training means a day without income. With no buffer for lost wages, attending the training sessions threatens to destabilize his already stretched finances.

How You Can Help

We aim to raise $3,600 to support Iskandar’s family for six months. This assistance includes:

• $200/month for groceries to ease household expenses
• $400/month for work allowance to compensate for the days he’ll miss work for training

Your contribution will provide the breathing room Iskandar needs to complete his training, secure full-time employment, and move closer to his dream of a better life for his family.

Be Part of Iskandar’s Journey

With your help, Iskandar can overcome this challenging moment and build a more secure future for his family. Every dollar brings him closer to achieving his goals and spending the time he longs for with his loved ones.