15 November 2024 Update: We would like to inform donors that TRCL has made an upfront payment to the vendor. Ray of Hope will be reimbursing TRCL accordingly to ensure full transparency in the use of funds raised.  It was agreed between AEAS, TRCL and RoH that the funds raised can also include: refreshments and snacks for migrant sisters attending the sessions; instructors’ training fees as declared by TRCL.

Imagine being in a work place, 24 hours a day, attending to the needs of another family, while also shouldering the responsibility of supporting your loved ones back home. This is the harsh reality faced by migrant domestic workers (MDWs), who often experience strenuous work and living conditions.

As of December 2023, Ministry of Manpower (MOM) reported that there were 286,300 MDWs in Singapore. Despite their crucial caregiving and supporting roles, Singapore does not have a minimum wage for MDWs.

Their salaries typically range from S$450 to S$650 a month. There are no regulations for working hours for MDWs, leading many to work beyond the average hours of a regular employee. It was only from January 1, 2023, that employers were legally required to give MDWs one mandatory rest day a month that cannot be replaced by monetary compensation.

As Singapore’s population ages, the demands placed on MDWs have increased, longer working hours and providing more specialised care for the elderly. For many households, hiring a MDW enables caregivers of seniors and mothers with young children to return to the workforce. However, heavy work pressures often contribute to loneliness and negative emotions such as sadness and depression among MDWs in Singapore.

To offer our migrant sisters the space to decompress, among friends, and relax on their day off, the Association of Employment Agencies Singapore (AEAS), The Rice Company Limited (TRCL) and Ray of Hope, are collaborating to ensure that the Fun Club Initiative continues. TRCL offers the venue, 10 Square @ Orchard Central, at a subsidised cost.

Workshops are conducted three Sundays each month and range from hands-on arts and crafts, self-care talks to energetic Zumba sessions.  The funds raised from this campaign will be used to cover i) trainer’s honorarium, paid directly to the trainer; ii) materials for activities (if any).

Let’s come together to empower our migrant sisters, providing them with opportunities to relax, learn new skills, and feel a part of the vibrant community they support every day.

About Association of Employment Agencies (Singapore)

AEAS represents employment agencies in Singapore with the mission to empower agencies, employers, and migrant domestic workers. We organise events for workers every Sunday except during Public Holidays. AEA(S) Fun Club was launched on January 8, 2023, in partnership with The RICE Company Limited (TRCL).

The AEA(S) Fun Club is dedicated to promoting mental wellness and personal growth for MDWs (Migrant Domestic Workers) through enjoyable and meaningful activities. Our curated programs include arts classes, music and dance sessions, and talks on health, mental wellness, financial literacy, and self-development, all conducted by professional trainers at 10 Square Orchard Central. Monthly outdoor activities provide opportunities for MDWs to explore cultural and recreational venues like the National Museum, Sentosa, Gardens by the Bay, and the Singapore Flyer.

The AEA(S) Fun Club aims to be a safe haven for new arrivals and those seeking enriching experiences. By empowering MDWs with knowledge and skills, we help them build confidence and create lasting memories to share with their families in Singapore and back home. This initiative underscores our commitment to supporting the well-being and development of MDWs, ensuring they have a positive and memorable experience during their time in Singapore.

About The Rice Company Limited (TRCL)

The Rice Company Limited is a not-for-profit arts and culture charity with an Institute of Public Character (IPC) status. TRCL is committed to addressing the social divide through creative and artistic intervention for the underserved with the aim of building a more resilient Singapore community. In this, TRCL manages The Business Times Budding Artist Fund which provides art education to financially disadvantage children and youth; and The #Engage Initiative, which seeks to bridge the digital divide.

About TRCL X

TRCL X is a new initiative by TRCL aimed at extending its support to the broader community like MDWs in Singapore. Building on TRCL’s mission to empower through the arts, TRCL X focuses on creative inclusive opportunities and fostering artistic talent across diverse groups, ensuring that more individuals can benefit from arts education and cultural engagement.

About Ray of Hope

100% of your donations through Ray of Hope goes to people in need. We do not take a cut from the funds. We even cover the 3rd party credit card charges, if you choose not to, that other crowdfunding platforms deduct from your donation for campaigns.

100% of all campaigns are also fully verified, so you know your funds go to real people with real needs.

We take donor accountability very seriously, with yearly audited accounts and strong governance in place to ensure that your donations are properly channeled to the beneficiaries.

Ray of Hope is Singapore’s only crowdfunding charity. We are a registered charity and a member of the National Council of Social Service.