On Mother’s Day, mothers around the world are honoured and celebrated. For single mothers who have to take on the total responsibility of taking care of their children, going through hardship and challenges in raising them, this occasion possesses a deeper meaning to them.
In celebration of this meaningful occasion, NTUC Women’s Development Secretariat (WDS) and the Singapore Flyer planned for a day of fun for 100 single mothers and their children who are with the NTUC WDS’s WeCare for U Project. This group of single mothers and children were treated to an educational tour through the Singapore Flyer Journey of Dreams Interactive Gallery, and a breath-taking experience on board the world’s largest Giant Observation Wheel.
During the flight, these amazing mothers were also given a surprise when their children presented their hand-made cards and carnations to show their appreciation and love for their mothers.
Ms Mary Liew, NTUC Central Committee Member and Vice-Chairman of NTUC Women’s Committee who also graced the event said, “It is both encouraging and heart-warming to know that our single mothers and children enjoy and have benefited greatly from WDS’s programmes. We hope to continue to do more for the female population in Singapore.”
Mdm Parvinder Kaur, 45 years old, joined WeCare for U Project since October 2010. On her experience with the project, she commented, “It is not easy at all, being a single mother. But with WeCare for U Project, I found great support and friendship. The activities organised by the project allowed me to spend quality time with my daughter and I truly appreciate that. I had such a lovely surprise today. Thank you NTUC WDS and Singapore Flyer, for planning such a memorable Mother’s Day celebration.”
Following their flight, their Singapore Flyer experience continued as the mothers and kids enjoyed a Mother’s Day meal at the Singapore Food Trail, a 1960s themed food street. The event is part of the iconic lifestyle destination’s efforts to celebrate the contribution of society’s heroes, including the selflessness of these mothers.
To commemorate Mother’s Day, Singapore Flyer is offering all mothers a free flight from 13 – 20 May 2012, upon presentation of a family photo to Singapore Flyer’s Ticketing Counter.*
*(First 100 families only. One redemption per family, per photo. Terms & Conditions apply)
WeCare for U Project: 1,359 single mothers and children
WeCare for U Project was launched by NTUC WDS with an important objective of reaching out to single mums and help them build greater resilience and independence through various intervention programmes. Since the project’s launch in early 2009, its outreach has grown steadily to 1,359 single mums and children (comprising 459 single mums and 900 children). To date, 38 activities have been organised, benefiting 1,627 single mums and 2,379 children.
The project helps these single mums go back to the workforce or secure better jobs to take care of their families through its Back2Work with U Programme. In order to provide a more holistic support for them, a variety of bonding events and workshops are also organised, in collaboration with project partners.
Update: WeCare kidsRead Programme
WeCare kidsREAD - a reading programme started in July last year, aims to help young children aged 4-7 years old inculcate a love for reading from young. The programme also helps to enhance children's social and emotional development by integrating play and craft activities.
A total of 19 reading sessions were conducted across three phases with an average of 12-15 children attending. Since the start of the programme, the programme has been supported by volunteers from Raffles Institution and Government of Singapore Investment Corporation Pte Ltd.
“NTUC WDS has been doing much to help these mums and children through our various programmes. We understand that it can be a daunting challenge to cope as a single mum. We want to tell them that they are not alone and there are assistance available to help them start afresh, regain their confidence, self-esteem and to have a good relationship with their children. Through our unions and community partners, we will continue to reach out to them and provide them with the necessary assistance.” Ms Sylvia Choo, director of NTUC WDS commented.
