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I REFER to the letter, 'Sinda should do more to help needy Indians' (ST, Feb 6), by Mr Naresh Raj. He said that while some of Sinda's programmes may have been 'highly successful', they fail to address the concerns of those who are financially strapped.
The key priority of the Singapore Indian Development Association (Sinda) is education. This is the most effective way to uplift families who would otherwise be caught in a downward socio-economic spiral. We are fully aware, however, that under-performance by students is related to many factors, including financial problems faced by the family.
That is why, from 1993 to last year, Sinda and its community partners have provided $4.8 million in bursaries to more than 13,000 students from low-income families. Last year, nearly 1,300 students in our education programmes received full or partial subsidies. From 1999 to 2004, in partnership with IT Services Cooperative, Sinda placed more than 3,000 refurbished computers in the homes of needy Indian families. Since 2003, Sinda has assisted more than 2,000 students in buying new PCs at highly subsidised rates.
Mr Raj said financial assistance is given only for selected cases such as those featured in the media. Last year, Sinda helped more than 400 ethnic Indian families who were either referred to us or simply 'walked in' to our family service centre (FSC). More than 100 job-seekers were either placed in jobs or offered training assistance.
Depending on the circumstances of each case, we provide immediate and short-term financial assistance, NTUC vouchers and food rations. We also refer applicants to appropriate agencies for help on issues such as housing, medical bills and payment of utility arrears.
Sinda is committed to helping needy members of the Indian community. However, like any self-help organisation, we cannot do this alone. We work in partnership with the community development councils, other FSCs and government agencies. Sinda is part of a national network of complementary social service agencies that collectively ensure that the needy, regardless of race, receive assistance.
Needy Indians can call Sinda's Helpline on 1800-2954554 which operates on weekdays from 8.30am to 6pm and on Saturdays from 8.30am to 1pm. Those who need help can also call the 24-hour ComCare line on 1800-222-0000 which operates in the four official languages.
If Mr Raj knows of specific cases that should have received assistance but were turned away, I invite him to visit Sinda or contact me on 6393-7214.
S. Manogaran
Chief Executive Officer
Singapore Indian Development Association (Sinda)
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