Existing Provisions and Expanding Eligibility of Crisis and Transitional Shelters for Homeless Youths under 21 With No History of Family Violence

Mr Kenneth Tiong Boon Kiat asked the Minister for Social and Family Development given that homeless youths under 21 years of age with no family-violence history fall between crisis shelters, which require family violence, and HDB public rental, which sets a minimum age of 21 years (a) what provision exists for them beyond Youth Crisis Homes; and (b) whether crisis-shelter or transitional-shelter criteria can be opened to such youths.

The Ministry of Social and Family Development is committed to ensuring that youth in need have access to safe accommodation and appropriate support. Homeless youths aged below 21 with no history of family violence can also seek support from Family Service Centres, drop-in centres operated by various Social Service Agencies (SSAs) and other SSA-operated temporary shelters. These agencies will work closely with them to address their root causes of homelessness, including the possibility of family reconciliation.

Youths aged below 21 can also be admitted into crisis shelters if there are immediate safety concerns or transitional shelters, on a case-by-case basis.

We will continue to work with our SSA partners to ensure that the sector remains responsive to the needs of the vulnerable.