Social media sparks discussions on safety, hygiene, and assistance for those in need
SINGAPORE: A resident turned to social media for advice on addressing a homeless man who has been sleeping on a stairway near their home for nearly two months.
“Police intervention has been attempted, but he flees before their arrival. Any insights or advice on addressing this issue would be invaluable,” wrote Mr. Wan Ru Sek on the Facebook group ‘COMPLAINT SINGAPORE’ on Saturday (Jan 3).
The homeless man reportedly insists on staying close to his girlfriend in the same block and has become a concern for the resident. Despite being offered food, drink, and friendly conversation, he continues to sleep on the stairway, allegedly contributing to unsanitary conditions and inappropriate behavior, including public urination.
“This poses a safety concern, especially with young children in the area,” added the resident.
Community Responses
Many social media users recommended reaching out to government agencies for assistance.
“Please contact social services or the town council. They may be able to provide the necessary help,” one commenter advised.
Another wrote, “Please reach out to MSF (Ministry of Social and Family Development). Not everything falls under town council responsibilities. MSF is equipped to handle such cases.”
A user shared their experience, saying, “We had a similar situation last month. We contacted MSF, and they helped relocate the person to a better place.”
Understanding Homelessness in Singapore
According to a 2019 study by Ng Kok Hoe titled Homeless in Singapore: Results from a Nationwide Street Count, homelessness exists across most of Singapore, with higher occurrences in larger, older housing estates and areas with a concentration of rental apartments.
The study revealed that the majority of Singapore’s homeless population consists of older Chinese men who are citizens with limited education and have experienced family, housing, health, or economic challenges.
Assistance for the Homeless
Singapore provides multiple avenues for addressing homelessness:
ComCare Hotline: Individuals needing assistance can call 1800-111-2222 or 1800-222-0000 from 7 am to 12 am, Monday to Sunday.
Email Support: Assistance requests can be sent to msf_peersoffice@msf.gov.sg.
Shelters and Support Networks
The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) launched the PEERS Network (Partners Engaging and Empowering Rough Sleepers) in 2019. It provides Safe Sound Sleeping Places (S3Ps) and temporary shelters for those in need.
Three key transitional shelters include:
Ang Mo Kio Family Service Centre Community Services
New Hope Transitional Shelter for Families in Crisis
AWWA
These shelters offer short-term lodging for up to six months, with social workers assisting individuals in finding long-term housing and employment.
The case highlights the need for a compassionate and systematic approach to resolving homelessness while ensuring community safety and hygiene.
