Viriya Community Services

09/09/2026

One of the most protective things a parent can do is create space for honest conversations about feelings. But for many of us, we were never taught how. Our latest article gives practical, straightforward guidance on how to talk to your child about mental health — and what to do if they tell you they are not okay.

Not sure how to talk to your child about mental health? This guide for Singapore parents covers when to start, what to say, and when to seek professional support.

02/09/2026

Today marks a double milestone – the official launch of the Journeys for Good campaign and the unveiling of the Charity Trains!

Our campaign will now be appearing across bus shelters and MRT stations islandwide, and is onboard the Charity Trains – carrying our message of hope and connection to commuters across Singapore.

A new day starts with one conversation. When you are ready to talk, we are ready to listen.

Once again, heartfelt thanks to MCCY, SMRT, and Stellar Ace for this meaningful opportunity. We also had the privilege of sharing more about our work with Guest of Honour MOS Baey Yam Keng.

Look out for our campaign on your daily commute!

28/08/2026

💚 Volunteers Workshop: Befriending Skills

Last weekend, our amazing volunteers gathered to level up their listening and connection skills. From empathy to active listening, they are now even more ready to support friends, neighbours, and loved ones through tough times. 🤝

"The workshop was very informative and useful!"

Thank you for your heart to serve, and for showing up to learn. We are so grateful for each of you.

27/08/2026

Mental health and mental illness are not the same thing — but we treat them as though they are, and it causes real harm.

Understanding the difference is the first step. Together, we can build greater awareness and support for everyone.

https://viriya.org.sg/blogs/mental-health-vs-mental-illness-what-is-the-difference/

19/08/2026

Grief counselling is not about being told to move on.

It is about having a supported space to carry your loss — without having to do it alone.

If you have been wondering what it involves, here is what to expect from that first session.

https://viriya.org.sg/blogs/understanding-grief-counselling/

Grief is one of the most universal human experiences — and one of the most isolating. Whether you have lost someone to death, or are grieving a relationship,

14/08/2026

Junior Explorer Project (JEP) is a volunteer-run community project under the Children & Youth Development Programme @ Whispering Hearts FSC

Designed for children aged 7–9, JEP uses group reading and hands-on activities to help children learn through books, language, and play. In our very first session, volunteers read The Little Rude Riding Hood with the children and guided them in identifying helpful and unhelpful behaviours - reinforcing values such as politeness, courtesy, and showing care towards family and friends.

We are also heartened to share that, through a partnership with local publisher Epigram, our children will be exposed to more local literature and authors in future JEP sessions! Titles include Why Do the Chinese Shout Yam Seng? and Harry Grows Up: The Early Years of Lee Kuan Yew, among many others.

13/08/2026

Many families in Singapore are managing elderly care costs without knowing how much financial support is available to them.

From Medifund to ElderFund to community programmes — the landscape could be more navigable than it looks, with the right guidance.

Here is a practical starting point:
https://viriya.org.sg/blogs/financial-assistance-for-elderly-care/

When a parent or elderly family member needs more care than the family can manage alone, the financial implications can be significant. From home care

12/08/2026

CNA's latest "IN FOCUS" piece – What happens when those who hurt their families seek help – features our very own Boon Leong (Deputy Director | Lead Social Worker) and Hui Wen (Deputy Head | Senior Social Worker).

The article offers a thoughtful look into a complex topic, one that requires patience, empathy, and a commitment to journeying alongside families through their struggles. Conversations like these matter. They help normalise help-seeking and reduce stigma, reminding us why the work we do every day is so important.

It is always encouraging when the issues we navigate daily receive wider attention. Thank you to our team, who work tirelessly in building resilience within families and the community.

One mother sought help after hitting her son whenever she lost patience, making him fearful and constantly on edge.

06/08/2026

Caregivers are often the last people to seek help.

But caregiver burnout is real — and it does not just affect you. It affects the person you are caring for too.

Here is what burnout actually looks like, and where to find support in Singapore: https://viriya.org.sg/blogs/caregiver-burnout/



Caregiver burnout is a very real concern and is more prevalent than most people recognise or openly acknowledge. This guide explains the signs, why it happens, and where caregivers in Singapore can find support.

04/08/2026

Programme Facilitation Skills with Kids Learn Code (SST)

Kids Learn Code (KLC), a student-led initiative from the School of Science and Technology, Singapore (SST), joined us for a programme facilitation workshop under Viriya's Community Education Programme (CEP). The workshop equipped KLC's EXCO members and volunteers with skills to better engage children and facilitate community programmes effectively.

By building the capacities of these passionate youths, we hope to empower them to continue making technology and coding more accessible and engaging for children and families in the community!