A CHARITY has unveiled a new initiative to support migrant workers facing critical illnesses, aiming to raise S$410,500 (RM1.37mil) to assist 20 workers over the next two years.
The CritiCare Fund for Migrant Workers seeks to bridge the financial gaps for workers whose insurance payouts fall short of covering treatment costs, according to the fund’s founders.
Donations will be managed by Ray of Hope, a registered charity overseen by the Social and Family Development Ministry. Disbursement decisions will be made by a council that includes doctors, civil society folks, employers, migrant workers and others.
The council has estimated that each case will require S$20,000 (RM67,000), setting aside an additional S$10,500 (RM35,175) for administrative expenses.
The team will also collect data on the incidence of critical illnesses among migrant workers, aiming to inform future insurance policies and healthcare planning.
For many migrant workers in Singapore, the cost of treating conditions like late-stage cancer or other serious diseases are prohibitive. — Xinhua
