Ray of Hope is raising $1,800 ($300 x 6 months) for Liyuan. The funds will enable him to save up to move into a HDB rental flat under the Joint Singles Scheme. Liyuan hopes to reintegrate into society, move out of the shelter, and be financially self-sufficient.

Liyuan, 40, is the middle child in his family. He was the main caregiver of his 70 year-old widowed mother before she was admitted into a nursing home for long-term care. Liyuan is estranged from his older sister; his younger sister is in long-term care for a mental health condition. He has been staying in a transitional shelter since February 2022 following a three-month stay in hospital.

Liyuan was a sales assistant in a retail store about 10 years ago and was able to support himself with a gross salary of $1,400. He had to leave his job when he could not cope with the work stress.

After leaving his job, Liyuan was diagnosed with schizophrenia. The diagnosis took a toll on his mental health and financial capacity. Liyuan was certified unfit for work until November 2022. He also suffers from high blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and heart issues.

In his free time, Liyuan visits his mum at the nursing home. She is diabetic and is mostly bed-bound due to her knee issues.

*Liyuan is currently receiving social assistance.