As Singapore grapples with the challenges of an ageing population, Sree Narayana Mission (Singapore) is stepping up efforts to raise funds to provide quality care and support for more seniors.
The 78-year-old charitable organisation will hold its inaugural Charity Dinner and Dialogue on Nov 14 at the Raffles Ballroom, Raffles Sentosa Singapore, bringing together philanthropists, corporate leaders and community partners to support its expanding eldercare services.
Senior Minister K. Shanmugam, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs, will attend as the guest of honour.
The evening will also feature a fireside chat moderated by Mr Piyush Gupta, Chairman of Keppel and former Chief Executive Officer of DBS Group.
Beginning with a cocktail reception at 6.30pm, followed by dinner at 7.30pm, the event aims to achieve two objectives: raise funds for SNM’s eldercare operations and encourage meaningful discussions on the growing challenges of caring for Singapore’s elderly population.
The fundraising initiative comes at a crucial time as Singapore becomes a super-aged society, with increasing demand for nursing homes, rehabilitation services and community-based support.
For SNM, the immediate priority is ensuring that its ambitious expansion plans are backed by sustainable financial resources.
The organisation currently operates two nursing homes, at Chong Pang and Riverwalk, providing more than 500 beds.
Its third nursing home, at Chencharu, is scheduled to open in 2028 with approximately 305 beds, increasing its total residential capacity to 831 beds.
While the expansion will allow SNM to serve more seniors, it will also significantly increase operational expenses.
Funds raised will help bridge financial gaps in staffing, nursing and medical care, rehabilitation, meals, daily operations and facility maintenance.
They will also support programmes that promote residents’ emotional well-being, social engagement and quality of life.
Although government subsidies and resident co-payments cover a substantial portion of nursing home expenses, charitable contributions remain essential to maintaining accessible and consistent care.
The charity dinner is therefore intended to build long-term relationships with donors and corporate partners rather than serve merely as a one-off fundraising exercise.
Established in 1948, SNM began by providing free tuition, food relief and scholarships to disadvantaged communities.
Over the decades, it has evolved into a secular charity operating nursing homes, Senior Care Centres and Active Ageing Centres, alongside other community services.
It has held Institution of a Public Character status since 1987 and received the Charity Transparency Award for five consecutive years.
Beyond providing medical assistance and residential care, SNM emphasises helping seniors age with dignity, respect and compassion.
Its programmes recognise that elderly residents need more than physical care. Social interaction, meaningful activities and emotional support are equally important to their well-being.
The organisation hopes the dinner will encourage businesses, individuals and community groups to contribute through donations, volunteering and sustained partnerships.
With Singapore’s elderly population continuing to grow, SNM believes that government support, corporate participation and community generosity must work together to ensure seniors receive the care they deserve.
Those interested in supporting SNM can contact 6955 9555, email donations@snm.org.sg for contributions or volunteer@snm.org.sg for volunteering opportunities.
santosh@sph.com.sg
