Expanded micro-jobs scheme for seniors gets $1.47m gift

Homemaker Rosnah Sulaiman struggled to cope after her husband’s death in 2017.

- Shermaine Ang

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung with seniors at the launch of the expanded micro-jobs initiative on Oct 13. DBS Foundation's $1.47 million donation will help fund the development of a new app by Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities and DBS Foundation to help seniors find and get paid for micro-jobs. ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY

(ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY)

But in 2023, the 77-year-old started a “micro-job” after a manager at Thye Hua Kwan Active Ageing Centre @ Bedok suggested it to help her cope with her loss.

She delivers meals to frail seniors in her block three times a week for lunch and dinner and is paid a small allowance of $1 for each meal delivered.

“1 find it a very good way to cheer myself up, to get rid of my depression and loneliness. I got to know a lot of people,’ said Madam Rosnah, who does not have children.

She is among 700 seniors from 18 active ageing centres (AACs) who have participated in a micro-jobs programme by Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities (THKMC) over the last 2½ years.

Building on the programme, an expanded micro-jobs initiative was launched on Oct 13, with a $1.47 million donation from DBS Foundation.