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”
The steadfast love of the LORD
never ceases; his mercies never
come to an end; they are new
every morning; great is your
faithfulness.
Lamentations 3:22-23 ”
Contents
President’s Message 2
YWCA News 3
Community Services and Programmes 6
YWCA Child Development Centres 11
Announcements & Compliments 14
January - March
2021
News Talk on Vaccines
Christmas Present Deliveries for
MOWC and KWC
Weaving Workshop
Terrarium Building Workshop at
Kids’ Weekday Care
A quarterly newsletter of the YWCA — Young Women’s Christian Association of Singapore www.ywca.org.sg
P resident’s M essage
Looking Back, Looking Forward
Our January – March issue traditionally marks the start of the calendar year and
we are thankful for new beginnings. 2020 was a difficult year for the Association
across all divisions, with Covid-19 badly affecting our hospitality division, and
causing the suspension of most of the programmes planned for our members
and beneficiaries.
In 2021, we expect these challenges to remain, but I am confident that we will
have the resilience to endure. Our trust is in the Lord our God, who has protected
the Association, the staff, and the volunteers throughout last year, and we will
continue to have faith that He will guide us through the upcoming obstacles.
The weaving studio we set up on our premises was one of the highlights of
2020. It is a craft dear to my heart, as I personally started weaving in 2018, on
the same type of SAORI looms we brought in. Our studio, equipped with 10
looms, has hosted a few weaving classes thus far, with more sessions planned
throughout this year as part of our YWCA Social Enterprises programme. I hope
you find weaving as relaxing and enjoyable as I do, while also being able to do
good for the mums in our programme.
This issue reports on the activities which took place in the last quarter of 2020,
as well as to update you on the activities in the Association. I hope that you will
read this issue and keep in touch with the YWCA.
I wish you a healthy and blessed year ahead!
Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not to your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him and he shall direct your paths
Proverbs 3:5-6
Tan Kee Leng, PBM
President, YWCA of Singapore
UPCOMING EVENTS
CREDITS WEAVING WORKSHOPS ECONOMIC TALK 2021
13 March, Saturday 6 March - By Dr Tan Kee Wee
Published by YWCA
12 April, Monday
Editor 13 April, Tuesday
Ms Tan Kee Leng
17 April, Saturday
Editorial Coordinators
Mrs Leung Yee Ping, Ms Gladys Foo, 24 April, Saturday
Ms Nicole Andrea Tan
254 Outram Road Singapore 169051
Tel: 6223 1227 Fax: 6227 3650
Email: admin@ywca.org.sg
Website: www.ywca.org.sg
Articles may be reproduced but acknowledgement
must be given to YWCA/Young Women’s Christian
Association of Singapore, and a copy of the
publication should be sent to the Editor.
Articles express the opinions of the authors and do
not necessarily refl ect the opinions or policies of
the YWCA/Young Women’s Christian Association
of Singapore.
All information correct at the time of printing.
All rights reserved. © YWCA of Singapore 2019.
MCI (P) 056/05/2019
2 January - March 2021 • ywLink 2 Corinthians 4:18 “So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is
unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
YWCA NEWS
2 Corinthians 4:17 For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory
that far outweighs them all.”
ywLink • January - March 2021 3
YWCA NEWS
4 January - March 2021 • ywLink 2 Corinthians 4:16 “Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are
wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day.”
YWCA NEWS
EAT SOMETHING GOOD EVERYDAY
TINGKAT
Daily Meals with Chef's Choices
Dine-in: $8++
(serves 1 person)
'Tingkat' means floor or storey in Malay. The Tingkat
carrier is a tiered tower of 3 containers designed to
bring nourishing home cooked meals for loved ones.
You can now also enjoy these delicious and comforting
meals when you dine-in at Café Lodge everyday!
@YWCAFortCanning @YWCAFortCanning.sg
YWCA Fort Canning, 6 Fort Canning Road, Singapore 179494
Ephesians 3:20 “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all
we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
ywLink • January - March 2021 5
COMMUNIT Y SERVICES AND PROGR AMMES
Kids’ Weekday Club: Terrarium Building
Written by: Liew Shan Yao
The child beneficiaries of the Kids’
Weekday Care (KWC) programme
got a chance to reconnect with nature
as they learnt to build their own
terrariums. Facilitated by Darrel from
Group Aid, the Terrarium Building
workshops took the children through
the process of creating their own little
ecosystem step-by-step. Out of the 19
children that attended the workshop,
10 were sponsored by Group Aid.
The facilitators were clearly well-
versed in running workshops as they
could easily captivate the children’s
attention while effectively instructing
them. At the same time, they imparted
little nuggets of fun facts about
terrariums, which the children lapped
up.
The children were delighted to learn something new and to be able to bring their creatively crafted projects home. Inquisitive
and curious, the children showered the facilitators with attention and questions, and allowed their wild imaginations take
them wherever they thought most interesting. They also actively traded decorations and coloured sand in order to achieve
the terrariums of their dreams, and we ended up with many distinct and uniquely decorated pieces.
The workshop served as a good contrast to the normal tutoring sessions they, and gave the children the space to settle
into the New Year. It definitely contributes to our goal of providing a holistic education for these kids by expanding their
horizons.
The workshop was
engaging and fulfilling,
and provided both
par tic ipant s and
benef ic iar ies with
something tangible
that can remind them
of their learning
experience.
6 January - March 2021 • ywLink Deuteronomy 31:6 “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified
because of them, or the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you
nor forsake you.”
COMMUNIT Y SERVICES AND PROGR AMMES Psalm 27:12 “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The LORD is ywLink • January - March 2021 7 the stronghold of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?”
COMMUNIT Y SERVICES AND PROGR AMMES
YWCA Weaving
Workshops
Written by: Chantelle Lim
Our new YWCA Social Enterprise Programme, YWCA
Weaving Programme has conducted a number of
public workshops so far.
We had participants of all ages, from 8 to 72, join
us in our workshops! Our participants have enjoyed
themselves tremendously as they created many
unique and beautiful scarves. As facilitators of the
workshops, it has been a joy seeing participants, who
started off apprehensive, steadily gaining confidence
and unleashing their creativity through weaving. Their
bright smiles express their accomplishment and
fulfilment of completing their pieces.
We also had participants who have been coming
to our classes repeatedly, eager to try new colour
combinations and patterns on our SAORI looms.
We’re grateful for their support and spreading the word
to their friends and family members! Our returning
participants are gradually developing their style and
exploring their creativity through this medium. These
learning points are an insight for us to continually
develop and adapt our lesson structure to cater to the
different needs and wants of our audience.
We urge you to come for a viewing session at
YWCA! Do email debralow@ywca.org.sg to arrange
an appointment so we can share our weaving
experiences with you. This style of weaving is relatively new in
Singapore and we would be delighted to guide you through the
craft and the programme.
Proceeds from the workshops go to creating employment
opportunities for our beneficiary mothers who are honing their
craft techniques and to support our community services at
YWCA.
8 January - March 2021 • ywLink John 4:18 “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because
fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.”
COMMUNIT Y SERVICES AND PROGR AMMES
Christmas Presents
Delivery for
Beneficiaries from
Meals-on-Wheels for
Children and Kids’
Weekday Care
Written by: Mandy Lim
Many of our planned programmes and events were disrupted
in 2020, including our annual Kids’ Christmas Party. Due to
the Covid-19 pandemic, we had to cancel the party in the
interest of the children’s safety.
Thankfully, YWCA was blessed by our sponsors from
Jaeger-LeCoultre, ensuring that our child beneficiaries
could still enjoy the season of giving despite the Covid-19
restrictions. From buying and wrapping presents from
each child’s wish list, to volunteering for gift delivery to the
children’s doorsteps, the Jaeger-LeCoultre team gave the
children a magical Christmas! It was a lovely gesture in
these difficult times.
A couple of members from the Jaeger-Lecoultre team also
sponsored bursary awards for our Kids’ Weekday Care
beneficiaries. They were rewarded for either performing well or for improving their grades in the academic year of 2020,
even with the challenges encountered while studying at home. The volunteers personally presented the bursary awards
to the children awardees.
Nic’s Art Co. prepared and donated Minion goodie capsules, consisting of simple art and crafts packs as well as snacks,
for our beneficiaries. These little projects kept the children entertained while they stayed safe at home.
YWCA and its beneficiaries are truly privileged and grateful to receive these generous Christmas blessings from our
sponsors and donors despite the difficult year we all had. We look forward to more collaborations in the New Year.
Romans 8:31 “What, then, shall we say in response to these things? If God is
for us, who can be against us?”
ywLink • January - March 2021 9
COMMUNIT Y SERVICES AND PROGR AMMES
Crossing the boundaries of race and
social classes
Written by: Philippine Sarre
I had never imagined that poverty in any form also existed in Singapore. The city appears so brilliant with the different
tourist attractions, the futuristic landscape, and the low unemployment rate. How can someone from France ever imagine
that there are still people unable to afford bare necessities or escape unhealthy family situations? Although most seem
unaware, these people exist.
While doing my internship at YWCA, I felt like I was uncovering more social disparities each day. Over the month, I split
my time between the different programs, which gave me an overview of what the organisation does for the children, the
elderly, the disabled, and the mothers longing for a new start. I also saw the services the association provides and what
goes on behind the scenes. YWCA truly taught me how to cross the boundaries of race and social classes by giving me
experience.
A memorable moment I would never forget took place during a fresh food delivery. I was paired with another volunteer for
the day as we delivered fresh groceries to the lower socioeconomic class of Chinatown residents. Never have I ever seen
nor imagined this kind of living conditions in Singapore because it does not align with all the pretty shiny skyscrapers.
What impressed me most was the way my companion interacted with the beneficiaries. As a regular volunteer, he knew
the place and people well and I learned only later that he was a pilot for Singapore Airlines. I did not think that someone
from what would be considered a higher social class would give back to society in this manner, so that was a complete
paradigm shift for me.
Through helping at the Kids Weekday Care three days a week, I understood how YWCA helps underprivileged children.
Private and personalised tutoring gives these children every tool to a new start and equal chances as others. The logic
is that if they learn now, they can be whatever they want to be as independent adults. The caring atmosphere helps them
grow peacefully and to nurture an open-minded spirit. I remember being very impressed by them on my first day. The
children were always volunteering to help each other, listening carefully, and more importantly, incredibly polite.
At first, I was worried that as a French unfamiliar with Singaporean references, I would not be able to get along with the
children. My fears turned out to be unfounded, as they welcomed me the same way they did with anyone else on the team.
Some even asked questions about the French culture, curious to know more. The only difficulties I faced were having
to quickly catch up on how the local educational system worked, and how to say red chili in Malay. After three weeks
spent together, I created many bonds with the children, allowing me to recognise their nature, needs, and interests. After
receiving so much from them, I want to spend even more time engaging with the kids and the volunteers to serve better
and share more moments of joy and laughter.
As a conclusion to this social internship, I am more than grateful to YWCA for enabling me to find out more about their
services. The real face of Singapore is hard to process but also very fulfilling. In the association, I met many great people
that taught me to understand others better and serve as best. I also understood that helping needs to be tailored to fit
everyone’s needs. Even though my first few days were a challenging as I had to cope with the culture and the language,
bringing me out of my comfort zone opened my mind. This social internship was a gift, and I encourage everyone to step
up for the community.
10 January - March 2021 • ywLink Romans 15:13 “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as
you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the
Holy Spirit.”CHILD DE VELOPMENT CENTRES
News Talk
on Vaccines
By YWCA Bedok South CDC
As part of the News Talk lesson at
YWCA Bedok South CDC, in which
our teachers cover current affair
topics, we discussed the latest
Covid-19 updates. Our teacher
spoke not only about how the people
of Singapore have been affected, but
also about the deaths the pandemic
has caused deaths globally.
The children had a chance to learn
about the new COVID-19 vaccine,
its safe and efficacy, and how it
will protect people against the
virus. They also learnt about the
vaccination programme rolled out by
the government.
To reinforce their learning today,
the children were encouraged to
participate in role play. They took
turns dressing up as doctors and
pretending to administer the vaccine
jab to each other. Our K2 students
even got to explore how syringes
work.
Psalm 31:24 “Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the
LORD!”
ywLink • January - March 2021 11CHILD DE VELOPMENT CENTRES
A Zoom Call with Mr Policeman
By YWCA Bedok South CDC
“Why do you want to be a policeman?” A child from K1 asked
Mr Chua Beng Heng, the Deputy Team Leader from Bedok
South Neighbourhood Police Centre.
This is the fourth year in a row that YWCA Bedok South
CDC collaborated with the neighbouring police centre.
Unfortunately, due to the pandemic, instead of having a real
life sharing, the children could only interact with Mr Chua
via Zoom. However, this did not dampen their excitement, as
they enthusiastically bombarded him with questions.
Mr Chua covered topics
like the importance of
not talking to strangers,
what police officers do,
and even showed them
the tools he carries
around. He also popped
by the centre while on
his patrol rounds and
dropped off DIY police
craft kits for the children.
To thank him and all the
other police officers for
keeping Singapore and
her people safe, the
children made him a
“Thank You” card and a
trophy!
12 January - March 2021 • ywLink Isaiah 41:10 “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I
will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”CHILD DE VELOPMENT CENTRES Dough Making Day! By YWCA Pasir Ris CDC Sensory play is an important part of our curriculum. The children at YWCA Pasir Ris CDC got their hands dirty as they tried to make their own dough in the classroom. An engaging activity, the children had the opportunity to explore all five senses while creating their own dough with the given ingredients. They were encouraged to discover for themselves what happens when the various ingredients are mixed together, and they exhibited a sense of wonder when they observed the change in properties. The children had a great time learning and their doughs turned out successful. At the end of the session, they had so much fun moulding their dough into all sorts of shapes in different sizes. Mask Distribution at YWCA CDCs The children at YWCA Outram CDC and YWCA Pasir Ris CDC with the masks distributed to them. Look how adorable they are while keeping safe! Isaiah 40:31 “But they who wait for the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount ywLink • January - March 2021 13 up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”
COMPLIMENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Compliments for YWCA Fort Canning Overall a pleasant stay considering travel restriction. The location of the YWCA is a big bonus, walking distance from many locations nearby – Fort Canning Park is across the street, the National Museum is within 100m, and Orchard Road, with many options of food and entertainment, is a short walk away. Rooms are pretty decent considering proximity to nearby popular spots, staff commitment and hospitality was excellent, food within the hotel is average. Surely recommended for a short stay, with free parking. Kiran Excellent service and cleanliness. Good value too. Aaron Hotel is clean and staff were friendly as we were warmly welcomed. Room size is ideal for families, with big spaces for children to play and run around. Muhammad The location is superb, close by to the major shopping belt, restaurants, and pubs. Plus if you want to work out, you can just head to the Fort Canning Park across the street for a refreshing jog and a nice view when you reach the top of the hill. Keng Had stayed a night for my boy’s birthday. The restaurant staff were kind enough to surprise my boy by sending a slice of cake to the room. The staff were all very polite and warm. We had a nice and comfortable stay. Thank you! Karine I loved that the staff kindly delivered the food we ordered online to our room. It was so kind of her to come up and personally give it to us. It was also great watching the movies available, and I liked the green scenery outside. The place was clean and I was pleased to see a Bible inside. Anonymouse The staff were good, great attitude! They were friendly. Good for a family gathering. L-vin Welcome on Board It is always a joy to welcome new members to the YWCA family! We would like to extend a warm welcome to: YWCA Fort Canning: Employee Name Position Wong Hui Ping, Felicia F&B Coordinator Rasrimin Bin Raseli Duty Manager Lam Ping Yu Frankie Assistant Executive Housekeeper Seow Choon Hong Part Time Steward Soh Jie Min Jasmine Finance Executive Tan Poh Hoon Jeannie Executive Housekeeper Muhammad Fadhli Bin Muhammad Sani Technician YWCA Child Development Centres: Employee Name Position Su Zhe Beginning Preschool Teacher Teng Kow Moy Cook Cum Cleaner Sim Margaret Cook Ng Shin Yee, Joyce Learning Support Educator Liang Yiwen, Evon Para Educator YWCA Child Development Centres: Employee Name Position Tan Xin Ya, Nicole Andrea Senior Corporate Communications Executive Liew Shan Yao Programmes Executive Yip Wei Jian Programmes Executive 14 January - March 2021 • ywLink Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
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