Initiative to help rough sleepers find co-tenants for rental flats among pilot projects given MSF funding

Singapore's Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has allocated funding for an initiative that pairs rough sleepers to share rental flats. The Partnership to Tackle Homelessness (PATH) fund, worth S$450,000 (US$352,600), supports community-led projects focusing on employment, housing, outreach, social reintegration and youth support. Of the 17 pilot projects, 11 aim to provide more personalized assistance for rough sleepers.

One such initiative is the Common Ground – Joint Singles Scheme (JSS) Matching Programme. This scheme connects single rough sleepers with compatible co-tenants to facilitate their rental applications for public housing. Dr Steven Tham, executive director of Good News Community Services, explained that participants at their first matching event learned about non-negotiables and preferences for co-tenants, which helped them feel more confident about living together.

Another pilot initiative addresses barriers to employment for rough sleepers. Associate director of Hope Initiative Alliance Joyder Ng shared a story about a rough sleeper who struggled to pass a security job assessment after undergoing initial training. Ng explained that the team provided the shelter needed, but lacked additional donations.

They decided to support the individual by helping him pay for a second training round, enabling him to secure the job. Despite initial challenges and resistance, Dr Tham emphasized that support continues even after rough sleepers move into their new homes, with social workers providing ongoing assistance and ensuring they have someone to consult if issues arise.