Mr Yap is 74 years old and lives alone in a one-room rental flat. 

Most days are shaped around his health. Mr Yap manages diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. There are regular clinic visits to attend and medications to take on schedule. His healthcare is subsidised, but keeping everything stable requires attention and discipline. “Must follow the doctor’s advice,” he says. “If not, things can get worse.”

Stepping Out, Even When It’s Easier to Stay In

Mr Yap has always been reserved. “I don’t talk very much,” he shares with a small smile. Still, he makes the effort to visit the nearby Active Ageing Centre from time to time.

He joins simple activities and occasionally chats with other seniors. “It’s good to go out and see people,” he says. “If I stay at home all the time, I will feel very lonely.”

These short outings give structure to his week. They offer conversation, familiar faces, and a reminder that he is part of a wider community.

Living on What He Has

Mr Yap relies on Long-Term Assistance as his only source of income. Each month, he works out how much he can set aside for utilities, transport to medical appointments, and groceries.

After covering the essentials, there is very little room left. Grocery prices have steadily increased, and even basic items add up. He keeps his meals simple and buys only what he needs. Unexpected expenses, even small ones, can unsettle his careful planning.

“At my age, I cannot work anymore,” he says plainly. “So I just have to manage.”

Managing, for him, sometimes means going without small comforts many of us hardly notice.

What We Are Raising Funds For

Ray of Hope is raising $488.64* to provide six months of grocery support for Mr Yap through NTUC vouchers. 

These vouchers will be used strictly for groceries and household essentials. The aim is to ensure that he has consistent access to food and basic necessities without having to worry each month about whether his budget will be enough.

More importantly, it will allow Mr Yap to focus on what matters most at this stage of life: maintaining his health, keeping up with his medical appointments, and continuing to live independently in the community he knows.

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