Mr Kng is 65 years old and lives with his 72-year-old wife, Mdm Leow, in a one-room rental flat. The couple have been married for many years and do not have children. For most of their lives, they worked and took care of themselves.

“We’ve always managed on our own,” Mdm Leow shared during the visit.

Mr Kng previously worked as a driver, while Mdm Leow worked at a food and beverage outlet for more than seven years. 

Both of them had hoped to keep working a few more years.

But as they grew older, their bodies could not keep up the same way and their health began to limit the work they could take on.

When Health and Age Caught Up

Mr Kng stopped working 11 years ago due to his health conditions. In 2015, he underwent surgery for nerve compression as well as a neck operation that required the insertion of metal plates. Despite these interventions, he continues to experience numbness and reduced strength in both hands. He also underwent knee surgeries many years ago and now relies on a Personal Mobility Aid (PMA) as he is unable to walk long distances.

“I can still go downstairs and buy things,” he said quietly. “Just slower now.”

Mdm Leow continued working until the outlet she was employed at closed three years ago. Although she had wanted to continue working, she found it increasingly challenging to keep up with the physical demands of the job as she grew older.

“I thought I could work a few more years,” she said. “But my body cannot already.”

Today, neither of them is able to return to employment. They now rely on quarterly government assistance.

Buying Only What’s Needed

With no employment income, the couple carefully manage their expenses and live as simply as they can.

“When we go to the supermarket, we look at the prices first,” Mdm Leow explained. “We buy what we need only.”

Mr Kng makes the grocery trips on his PMA. He moves slowly through the aisles, keeping track of what goes into the basket. Fresh items are chosen carefully. Small decisions add up.

They have grown used to making do with less. Still, as their health needs increase with age, keeping up with even basic daily expenses has become more difficult.

How You Can Help

Ray of Hope is seeking to raise $1,221.60* to provide six months of support for Mr Kng and his wife through grocery vouchers. The support will be provided at $230 per month over six months to help the couple purchase groceries and other essential household items.

The support will help offset the cost of groceries, household essentials, and other daily necessities.

For Mr Kng, it means going to the supermarket on his PMA and choosing what they need without second guessing every item.

For Mdm Leow, it means planning simple meals and knowing the basics are covered for the month.

“When you are old, you don’t want to trouble people,” Mdm Leow said softly. “We just hope we can manage.”

Over time, they adjusted quietly and learned to accept assistance. This support would ease one constant concern and allow them to focus on keeping well and continuing the small routines they share each day.

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