FEATURE ARTICLE: EMPOWERING SINGAPORE’S NEXT GENERATION THROUGH LITERATURE
At *SowCare, we believe every child deserves a fair shot at life, regardless of background. That is why we support initiatives like the inaugural National Storytelling Competition and Carnival, organised by Filos Community Services in partnership with *HIA’s The Alphabet Project (TAP). This carnival, themed Once Upon a Fairytale, empowers children from underprivileged families through the power of stories, giving them a platform to express themselves freely and creatively.
Children aged 6 to 12 were nominated by social service agencies such as New Life Community Services, Hope Initiative Alliance, and Filos Community Services to take part in storytelling competitions from 21 to 28 July 2025. The journey culminated in a joyful Community Carnival on 12 September 2025 at Bedok Community Club with more than 300 participants, including 200 children and their families. The carnival was graced by Mr Eric Chua, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Law and Ministry of Social and Family Development. While winners were recognised for their creativity, every child was celebrated for their courage and growth.
What made the event truly meaningful was the unwavering presence of families. One young boy from TAPClub@Bedok was cheered on by his mother, aunt, and grandmother—three generations united in love and support.
Beyond this initiative, SowCare@Toa Payoh also runs the Children Befriender programme, which reaches out to
underprivileged children from low-income families. Volunteers interact with the children weekly, helping them with reading, writing, and play. One child, Adrian (not his real name), lives in a rental flat and is raised by his grandmother alone. Having experienced bullying from a young age, Adrian’s confidence was deeply shaken. However, through the befriender programme, we are beginning to see a glimmer of joy return to his eyes.
It is our prayer that even in their struggles, these children will feel God’s love shining through us, and that their sense of worth and belonging will be lovingly restored. As Psalm 136:1 reminds us, “Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever.”
You can be part of their stories and support SowCare by donating prizes or bursaries. For every $100 you give each month, you can provide families like Adrian’s with a safe, dignified home and offer other underprivileged children the chance to grow, play, and thrive.
Let’s write a better future together for our next generation, one child at a time.
Visit sowcare.sg to find out more.
*SowCare: The community service arm of the Bible Society
*Hope Initiative Alliance (HIA): An Institution of a Public Character (IPC) charity
