NTUC SG60 Solidarity Walk raises nearly $3m to support lower-income workers and families

NTUC has raised close to $3 million through its SG60 Solidarity Walk on 6 September 2025, with proceeds channelled to NTUC Care programmes that provide direct aid to lower-income union members, caregivers and platform workers across Singapore.

NTUC Secretary-General Ng Chee Meng described the fundraising “a testament to our collective solidarity,” stressing the Labour Movement’s continuing mission to help workers secure better wages and fuller lives.

NTUC Assistant Secretary-General and NTUC Care Division Director Melvin Yong echoed this, noting the strong turnout from unions, donors and youth volunteers.

SG60 Solidarity Walk and NTUC’s 64th anniversary

The SG60 Solidarity Walk was timed to coincide with NTUC’s founding on 6 September 1961.

The walk brought together 1,500 participants, including union leaders, NTUC Care beneficiaries, youth volunteers and corporate partners.

They completed 3km and 6km scenic routes past Marina Bay Sands, Helix Bridge and Clarke Quay.

The event concluded with goodie bag giveaways, photo booths and local food stalls, underscoring NTUC’s roots in everyday Singapore life.

One beneficiary, 44-year-old Goh Boon Kai, shared how NTUC’s assistance schemes have eased the strain of caring for his two children with special needs.

“As an unemployed father, the help from NTUC is timely. It gives me and my family greater confidence about the future,” he said.

Through the NTUC Care Fund (Caregiver Support) for Caregivers of Children with Special Needs, Mr Goh received $1,000 each for his 19-year-old daughter, who has a learning disability, and his 4-year-old son, who lives with muscular dystrophy.

He added: “Workers today face many challenges — from disruption to retrenchments. Being an NTUC member is not just about vouchers. It means having support when you need it most, even in the toughest times.”

Youth volunteerism at NTUC SG60 Solidarity Walk

Nearly 200 youth volunteers supported the event, including hosting lower-wage beneficiaries during the walk. Organisers said this gave the youth first-hand exposure to the challenges faced by working families while fostering intergenerational empathy.

The initiative also reflected NTUC’s push to develop youth leadership and embed a stronger culture of care in the Labour Movement.

NTUC Care assistance programmes target over 40,000 workers and families

Funds raised will contribute to NTUC Care schemes that target more than 40,000 workers and families. The broader goal is to raise $7 million by year’s end.

Key NTUC Care schemes include:

• NTUC Care Fund (Special Assistance) – Up to $150 in cash support for daily living costs
• U Stretch & Back-to-School e-Vouchers – Up to $240 of e-vouchers per family for essentials and children’s schooling needs
• Education Awards – Up to $600 for tertiary students and $200 for non-tertiary students
• Youth Enable and NTUC Starter Awards – Up to $16,000 in scholarships and leadership development
• Caregiver Support Schemes – Financial help for single caregivers and those caring for children with special needs
• CAP+Ure Fund and Work Injury Relief – Emergency support for sudden loss of income and work injuries amongst platform workers

The programmes are part of NTUC’s holistic approach to uplifting vulnerable workers and ensuring they receive practical and timely support.

NTUC strengthens its commitment to workers’ welfare

More than a commemoration of NTUC’s 64th anniversary, the walk reaffirmed its pledge to stand by workers through changing times.

Backed by impact businesses such as FairPrice Foundation and Income Insurance, and with continued public support, NTUC said it will sustain efforts to champion workers’ welfare across Singapore.

Click here for more information on all NTUC Care assistance programmes.

To help those in need, you can donate to the NTUC-U Care Fund.