Debated in Parliament on 21 Oct 2013.
Mr Yee Jenn Jong asked the Minister for Social and Family Development (a) what is the Government's internal measure of neediness that is used to define the 200,000 needy households to which masks are distributed during the recent haze; (b) what other internal measures of neediness are used to guide the Government's inclusive programmes to aid at-risk families; and (c) what is the Government's view on what is the minimal household income per person necessary to meet the basic needs of physical well-being and social inclusion.
During the haze episode in June 2013, 1 million N95 masks were distributed through grassroots organisations to some 200,000 needy households with a per-capita income of less than $900.
These households were verified through their membership in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) Blue scheme or a simple self-declaration of income when they visited the Community Clubs/Centres for collection. Those who had pre-existing diseases and had difficulty getting masks could also approach the grassroots organisations for assistance. The People's Association grassroots network played a crucial role in identifying vulnerable groups and distributing the masks to them.
Rather than using a poverty line as a single measure of need among at-risk or in-risk families, we have broader definitions of groups of Singaporeans we seek to help, clear criteria to help us identify them, and appropriate assistance schemes to help them.
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We conduct regular reviews to ensure that ComCare assistance remains relevant to the low-income and vulnerable. For example, the Public Assistance Scheme has been made more tailored to actual needs. Apart from a monthly allowance and free medical treatment, elderly recipients with additional needs can receive support for recurring medical consumables such as adult diapers or health supplements, as well as assistive equipment such as commodes and wheelchairs.
PAPERCUTS