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SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports (MCYS) announced on Friday that the implementation date of the increase in public assistance (PA) rates will be brought forward from July to May.
Starting from 5 May, PA recipients will receive a rate increase of between S$40 and S$165 a month, depending on their household type.
The higher rates were discussed during the Budget debate and they were supposed to take effect only in July.
MCYS Minister Dr Vivian Balakrishnan said: "We have now decided to bring that forward to May... because we think that there is a need for additional funds to be in their (the recipients') hands, so that they can cope with these food prices."
Instead of getting S$290 a month, an elderly recipient living alone will receive S$330 a month.
A family of four will see a rate increase of S$165 a month to S$1,020.
But some said more is needed.
"When I visit the doctor, I need $2 for travelling expenses. That's not enough. Rent and utilities cost almost $100. With $100 to $200 remaining, is that enough?" said an elderly PA recipient.
PA recipients also receive free medical treatment, subsidised rentals, utilities and service and conservancy charges rebates.
For some, help comes from other organisations as well.
"Sometimes, my church will help me. They give me rice and canned food. That's why I can survive. They help me," said a elderly citizen.
Besides, there is the ComCare Fund which enables the Citizens' Consultative Committees (CCCs) and grassroots leaders to provide immediate assistance to needy families in financial difficulties.
Dr Balakrishnan said: "We will leave it to the discretion of the individual grassroots organisations to decide on their own schemes - which are (the) most relevant, which will make the most impact on the ground."
"The funds that are available to the CCCs are more than adequate. And if there are any specific CCCs (that) have schemes for which they need additional funds, I will look at (them) carefully," he added.
MCYS said it expects to spend around S$64 million this financial year to help needy Singaporeans under the various ComCare programmes.
The ministry advised those who need help to go to the Community Development Councils or family service centres. They can also approach their grassroots leaders or call the ComCare helpline at 1800-222-0000. - CNA/ac
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