Building blocks of the community
The charity is working with the The Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) to reach out to transnational couples and spouses, that is to say a relationship or marriage between two people from different countries. The number of transnational marriages between a Singapore citizen and a person from another country (excluding permanent residents) has been growing steadily, from 23 percent of all marriages in 2003 to 30 percent in 2013.
Eight in 10 transnational marriages are between Singaporean grooms and
non-resident brides.
Overcoming cultural barriers
“What we hope to do is have the people start out on a proper footing to have
as great a chance for success in their marriages, as much as possible.”
Minister for Social and Family Development Chan Chun Sing
This is where Care Corner comes in. The charity helps new couples to open the lines of communication, to manage their expectations of each other and to strengthen their bond through a series of marriage preparation programmes and marriage support programmes. The programmes also help couples to focus on preparing to settle down in Singapore, changing citizenship, negotiating the laws and language of a new country, and on managing finances. Transnational couples are encouraged to attend these programmes, which consist of workshops, activities, group sharing and mini lectures, on a voluntary basis. The programmes are open to all couples, regardless of their financial situation.
Share your language skills
For more information, click here.
Not a translator but still want to help?
- Want to help Care Corner centres to reach out and help the community? Volunteer as Community Liaisons Office/Receptionist
- Love children and know the current primary school syllabus? Volunteer as Evergreen Bees Mentors - Care Corner Singapore
- Have video production experience and want to inspire others to take action in social good? Volunteer with Filmmakers 4 Good - Care Corner Singapore
Author
Emma Nobes