4-member household, under $5K income: Singaporean seeks financial advice for this broken family

SINGAPORE: Seeking financial guidance for struggling families, an online user turned to a forum on Monday (March 31) to ask for advice on behalf of a friend. With a four-member household surviving on less than $5,000 a month, the writer sought practical tips from Singaporeans on navigating finances under such tight constraints.

The user gave Singaporeans some context to his friend’s situation. “His dad made a bad business decision, which resulted in the home being used as a warehouse, making it barely livable (Really next-level stuff). The mother wants a divorce and the children side with the mum.”

According to the post, the parents are unable to file for divorce as neither of them can afford to pay for half of the house. He also added that selling the house is a challenge as it is not in proper condition to be sold. “The mental well-being of all parties is totally strained, and living conditions are extremely poor,” the writer shared. He then asked Singaporeans for advice on the matter.

Some recommended that the family reach out to different services for support. “They can try MSF or charities or family service centres,” said one. Another suggested, “Based on the overall circumstances that I’m reading, the mum should approach FSC to see a social worker, not SSO/MSF. They can just walk into the FSC during working hours. If the social worker thinks the family should seek financial assistance, they will then refer you to SSO.”

While one said that the family could try attending their MP’s meet-the-people sessions, another suggested still trying to sell the house despite it not being in good condition. “Selling the house isn’t a big deal,” said one. “People will haggle for a discount; most people will just do a full renovation when they buy a house.”

Services by Family Service Centres (FSCs)

According to Support Go Where, Family Service Centres (FSCs), which are community-based social services,  specialise in providing support for people and families undergoing social and emotional issues. Their services include giving information and referring individuals and families to the corresponding resources depending on their needs. Casework, group work, and community work are also included.

See also: My husband would rather pay than do household chores

Featured image by Photo: Depositphotos/ shisuka (for illustration purposes only)