A single mother of four, Yawen works tirelessly to keep food on the table and take care of her children by herself. Despite stretching every cent and sacrificing her own needs, unpaid bills and debts continue to accumulate.

“When you’re deciding between keeping the lights on or your next meal, savings aren’t even an option. Even though I work and work, it felt like I was sinking deeper. I was clearing one bill only to fall behind another.” shared Yawen.

Overwhelmed by $8,000 of unpaid utility bills and stuck in a cycle of borrowing, she felt alone, constantly worried, and weary. This took a toll on her health and mental well-being.

Introduced to the MWS Family Development Programme (FDP), Yawen received coaching on how to clear her debts and develop a savings plan. Her befriender has been at her side, walking alongside and providing emotional support.

Today, she is still rebuilding her life but no longer doing it all alone. Each small step forward is a step out of the cycle of poverty. The Invisible Mum who she once was is now supported by a community who sees her.

Apart from FDP, MWS’ hub of family services also provides counselling, therapy, marital and parenting support to serve families with complex issues. Partnering with dedicated volunteer befrienders and case workers, families receive much needed emotional support and financial guidance, so that they do not have to face their challenges alone.

This Christmas, your giving enables MWS to support Invisible Mums like Yawen, allowing them to look deeper within themselves and find strength, dignity, and hope.