Resources Archives

Opening Doors: Making Education Accessible to Vulnerable Children and Youth

Can a child truly focus on education if their family struggles to afford basic needs like food and shelter? Research has shown that education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty, but for children from lower-income families, daily survival often takes priority. This can hold them back and widen opportunity gaps. At CFS, we seek to address these challenges so every child gets the support they need to succeed.Our donors recently had the chance to learn more from two charities who are working to bridge this gap. Working in close collaboration with government ministries, schools, and communities, they deliver accessible education and renewed hope for children and youth through mentorship, befriending, and activities.

Philanthropic donations jumped 96%, Low Tuck Kwong Foundation the largest giver

A foundation named after Singapore-born coal tycoon Low Tuck Kwong is the top private giver in a list of Singapore’s 10 biggest philanthropic organisations in terms of donations given.The Low Tuck Kwong Foundation, set up in December 2022, gave $127.6 million in 2023 to educational and healthcare causes.

Man starts charitable fund with close to $100k in life savings left by his nanny

A tech investor was shocked to find out that his majie, or nanny, left him her life savings of close to $100,000 when she died.To honour her, the 41-year-old, who wanted to be known only as Mr Lim, used the money to set up a charitable fund in her name with the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) in 2023.

‘Tis the Season to Give: Bring Cheer to Those in Need This Year-End

As cool, rainy nights set in and bright, sparkling decorations line the streets, it’s clear that the season of giving has arrived in sunny Singapore. Families and friends gather to celebrate the spirit of joy, love, and gratitude, exchanging gifts and enjoying moments together.However, this season can be a challenging time for some, who may feel a deeper sense of isolation amidst the celebrations. Financial pressures can weigh heavier on those struggling to get by.

The Community Foundation of Singapore wins Charity Transparency Award for the Fourth Time

The Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) has been awarded the Charity Transparency Award (CTA) 2024, marking its fourth consecutive win of this prestigious honour. Presented by the Charity Council, the CTA recognises organisations that uphold high standards of transparency as outlined in the Charity Transparency Framework (CTF).

Lighting the Way Together: CFS Celebrates Mid-Autumn Festival with the Association for Persons with Special Needs

The Mid-Autumn Festival held special significance for the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS) team this year. They joined trainees at APSN Centre for Adults (CFA) for a creative lantern painting activity, transforming simple lanterns into vibrant artworks. The event served as an excellent icebreaker, sparking conversations and even some impromptu dance performances.

Ensuring A Brighter Future for Vulnerable Families and Children

Imagine being released from prison after a decade, returning home to children who barely know you. How do you begin to rebuild your life and relationships with your family? Imagine being a child who does not have good relationships at home or in school, having little trust and confidence in the people around you. How do you find a sense of belonging and begin to develop your self-identity?

Giving back to society without fuss, the Singaporean way

When people in Singapore hear the word “philanthropy”, I suspect the first picture that crosses their mind is a well-dressed person holding up a large mock cheque at a grand ceremony. Accompanying that mental picture is the thought that philanthropy is too lofty, and unattainable for them. This is understandable, given how the media tends to spotlight the big – and newsworthy – gifts to charities, and how beneficiaries want to recognise such generosity.But the reality, certainly in the time that I have been involved at the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS), focused on growing philanthropy, is far removed from this. The donors that the team and I have met over the years have been diverse. In many ways, this is a microcosm of Singaporean society.

Improving Employability: Creating Opportunities for All

In Singapore’s vibrant economy, employment is a key driver of social mobility and well-being. However, some groups face unique challenges in securing and maintaining meaningful work. At the Community Foundation of Singapore (CFS), we recognise the importance of creating pathways to employment for all members of our community. Through strategic partnerships and innovative programmes, CFS is working to enhance employability and open doors of opportunity for those who need it most.We invited donors to Bettr Group’s new space to learn more about three impactful initiatives offered by the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), Bettr Group, and Assumption Pathway School (APS). These initiatives are making a positive impact on the lives of Singapore citizens and residents by promoting skills development, workplace inclusion, and supportive environments.

Celebrating 15 Years of Impact: CFS Annual Report 2024

We are pleased to share our 2024 Annual Report, celebrating The Community Foundation of Singapore’s 15th anniversary. This year’s report outlines our progress over the years, and reinforces our firm commitment to being the community foundation focused on uplifting and supporting communities across Singapore.A Year of Exceptional Grantmaking

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