Singapore faces significant food insecurity despite its economic development. According to The Hunger Report by Singapore Management University’s Lien Centre for Social Innovation, 10.4% of households experienced food insecurity at least once within 12 months in 2020, and up to 30% of people over 50 may not get enough to eat each day. This review covers major food assistance programs, their contact details, registration processes, and food offerings.
1. WILLING HEARTS
Overview
Willing Hearts is an IPC registered charity run mostly by volunteers that prepares and delivers about 10,000 daily meals to needy and marginalized people in Singapore, operating 365 days a year.
Contact Details
- Address: No. 1 Lorong J Telok Kurau (entrance via Joo Chiat Place), Singapore 425792
- Phone: +65 6476 5822
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: willinghearts.org.sg
- Operating Hours: Daily, year-round
How to Register
Applicants need a social worker or social agency to apply on their behalf. Contact:
- Social Service Offices (SSO) ComCare hotline: 1800 222 0000
- Agency of Integrated Care (AIC): 1800 656 0505
Direct collection is also available at their soup kitchen during distribution times.
Food Types Offered
Hot, freshly prepared meals with Asian flavors, typically rice with 2-3 dishes including protein, vegetables, and curry or sauce. Meals prepared with consideration for various dietary needs and cultural preferences.
Distribution
Over 70 locations island-wide, with meals delivered daily to beneficiaries including the elderly, disabled, low-income families, and migrant workers.
2. THE FOOD BANK SINGAPORE
Overview
Founded in 2012, The Food Bank Singapore aims to end food insecurity by 2025 through collecting surplus food and delivering it to those in need.
Contact Details
- Address: 218 Pandan Loop, XPACE, Singapore 128408
- Phone: +65 9855 4805
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.foodbank.sg
- Online Registration: Available for volunteers; newsletter sign-up for Junior Foodbankers
How to Register
The Food Support Program provides essential food supplies to families and individuals facing food insecurity by distributing monthly food rations. Contact directly via email or phone for assistance.
Food Types Offered
Fresh produce (fruits and vegetables), frozen items (meat, seafood), dry goods (rice, pasta, canned foods), and dairy products.
Key Programs
- Food Support Program: Monthly food rations
- Food Pantry 2.0: 24/7 emergency food aid program utilizing automated vending machines. Beneficiaries receive bank cards loaded with credits to select food items at any time
- Bank Card Programme: Currently on pause, will relaunch in 2026
3. FOOD FROM THE HEART
Overview
Founded in February 2003 by Singapore-based Austrian couple Henry and Christine Laimer, Food from the Heart is an IPC status food bank serving close to 64,000 beneficiaries across Singapore.
Contact Details
- Address: 130 Joo Seng Road, #03-01, Singapore 368357
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.foodfromtheheart.sg
- Volunteer Registration: Available online through volunteer portal
How to Register
Food from the Heart works with social service agencies and community organizations. Contact your nearest Family Service Centre or speak with a social worker. Referrals will be made to Food from the Heart if you qualify.
Food Types Offered
Five distribution programs:
- Bread Run: Surplus bread from bakeries and hotels
- Food Support: Monthly food rations for lower-income individuals and families
- Community Shop: Shop-for-free charity minimart
- School Breakfast Program: Nourishment for underprivileged children
- Food Rescue: Near-expiry and packaging-damaged food
4. SINGAPORE BUDDHIST WELFARE SERVICES (SBWS)
Overview
Launched in 1985, the Daily Free Meal Delivery Programme provides free, healthy, vegetarian food to needy elderly and the vulnerable who face difficulties in getting their own meals, serving beyond differentiation, regardless of race or religion.
Contact Details
- Phone: +65 6489 8161
- Website: www.sbws.org.sg
- Admin Office Hours: 9:00am to 4:00pm (Closed on Saturdays, Sundays, and Public Holidays)
How to Register
Applications are accepted through referrals by hospitals, family service centres, grassroots organisations, and public agencies.
Food Types Offered
Vegetarian meals sent to beneficiaries twice a day, on a daily basis from Mondays to Saturdays (except Sundays and public holidays).
Traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine including mixed vegetable dishes, tofu preparations, and rice-based meals.
Additional Assistance
Public Assistance Programme provides Monthly Financial Assistance in the form of cash grants and/or Monthly Food Rations, based on needs assessed through home visits every 6 months.
5. GOVERNMENT PROGRAMS – COMCARE
Overview
ComCare offers support to Singaporeans and their families who require financial assistance to meet basic needs like food, transport, and household bills.
Contact Details
- ComCare Hotline: 1800 222 0000
- Website: www.msf.gov.sg/comcare
- Social Service Offices (SSO) Hours:
- Mon to Fri: 9am to 1pm (last registration at 12pm), 2pm to 6pm (last registration at 5pm)
- Closed on Sat, Sun and Public Holidays
How to Register
Visit SupportGoWhere (supportgowhere.life.gov.sg) to:
- Find support schemes relevant to you
- Check eligibility
- Submit online application
Alternatively, visit your nearest Social Service Office for in-person assessment.
Types of Assistance
- Short-to-Medium-Term Assistance: For those unable to work temporarily (illness, caregiving), job-seeking, or earning low income. Typically granted for 3-6 months.
- Long-Term Assistance: For persons permanently unable to work due to age, illness, or disability.
- Emergency Assistance: Immediate financial relief for urgent needs.
Eligibility
The applicant must be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (where at least one immediate family member of the same household is a Singapore Citizen). Income criteria are not hard thresholds—SSOs assess circumstances holistically.
Food Support
- Supermarket vouchers
- Cooked-food coupons
- Food packs
6. SINGAPORE RED CROSS – MEALS WITH LOVE
Overview
The Singapore Red Cross Meals with Love Programme provides a stop-gap measure while families work with social workers to develop comprehensive long-term care plans.
Contact Details
- Website: redcross.sg/meals-with-love
- Contact through Singapore Red Cross main channels
How to Register
Applications are reviewed based on financial action plans. Referrals typically come through social workers and partner agencies like Thye Hua Kwan Charities (THK).
Food Support Offered
Identified families receive grocery vouchers for six months to purchase nutritious food and groceries including chicken, beef, vegetables, rice, and other necessities.
7. THYE HUA KWAN MORAL CHARITIES – DORCAS PROGRAMME
Overview
Supports frail and homebound Singaporeans and Permanent Residents aged 55 and above.
Contact Details
- Service Areas: East and South Singapore
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: thkmc.org.sg
How to Register
Contact via email for assessment. Services provided through professional staff and trained volunteers.
Food Types Offered
Daily hot meals for homebound seniors unable to buy or prepare meals, with well-being checks during delivery.
8. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL (CDC) VOUCHERS
Overview
CDC Vouchers can be used at participating hawker centers, supermarkets, and other food establishments, providing direct support for food expenses.
How to Access
Distributed to eligible households by the government. Check with your local CDC or through PA community centers for voucher schemes.
Usage
Can be used for food purchases at:
- Participating hawker centers
- Supermarkets
- Heartland shops
- Provision shops
ADDITIONAL FOOD ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS
9. Religious & Community Centers
Mosques & Islamic Centers:
- MUIS (Islamic Religious Council of Singapore): Iftar packs during Ramadan, Zakat distributions
- Various mosques run gotong-royong food distributions during festivals
Buddhist Temples:
- Free vegetarian meals and buffets at various temples
- Community kitchen programs
Hindu Temples & Sikh Temples:
- Free vegetarian meals during festivals (Deepavali, Vaisakhi)
- Daily langar (free kitchen) services at Gurdwaras
Christian Churches:
- Food pantries and meal programs
- Soup kitchens operated by various denominations
10. Community Fridges & Pantries
How to Find:
- Check local Facebook groups and Telegram channels
- Follow grassroots organizations
- Visit community centers for locations
Food Available:
- Donated fresh produce
- Packaged goods
- Baked items
- Ready-to-eat meals (varies by location)
11. University & College Student Support
For Students:
- Campus welfare services provide food packs
- Subsidized meals at student canteens
- Emergency vouchers for students in financial need
Contact:
- Student affairs offices
- Campus counseling centers
- Student unions
12. Free Food For All (FFFA)
Description: A registered charity providing halal meals to those in need while minimizing food waste. Started in 2014 at Darul Aman Mosque, FFFA has expanded services across multiple communities.
How to Access:
- Pop-up community pantries
- Distribution announcements on social media
- Various community locations
13. The Saturday Movement
Contact:
- Email: [email protected]
- Founded in 2011 as a ground-up initiative
Focus: Weekend food distribution when other agencies don’t operate, tackling food waste while supporting vulnerable populations.
14. Neighborhood Links & Family Service Centres
How They Help:
- Assess needs and make referrals
- Connect to appropriate food programs
- Provide holistic family support
Find Your Nearest Centre:
- Visit NCSS website (ncss.gov.sg)
- Call MSF hotline: 1800 111 2222
- Check at community centers
HOW TO ACCESS FOOD ASSISTANCE EFFICIENTLY
Step 1: Determine Urgency
- Immediate Need: Visit hospital social services, SSO, or Willing Hearts
- Regular Support: Contact Family Service Centre for assessment
Step 2: Gather Documentation
Prepare:
- NRIC/FIN
- Income proof (payslips, CPF statements)
- Medical reports (if applicable)
- Household bills
Step 3: Get Referrals
Most formal programs require referrals from:
- Social workers
- Family Service Centres
- Hospital social services
- Community nurses
- Grassroots leaders
Step 4: Multiple Sources
You can access:
- Government assistance (ComCare)
- Charity programs (Willing Hearts, Food Bank)
- Religious organization support
- Community pantries
Simultaneously, as different programs serve different needs.
Step 5: Stay Informed
- Subscribe to charity newsletters
- Join local community WhatsApp/Telegram groups
- Check FoodConnect Directory: foodconnect.gov.sg/directory
- Use 211 Singapore resource directory
PRACTICAL TIPS
General Etiquette
- Bring containers: Many programs require own bags/containers
- Arrive early: Popular distributions are first-come-first-served
- Respect guidelines: Resources are limited, follow volunteer instructions
- Maintain dignity: Assistance is confidential through official channels
Best Times to Visit
- Willing Hearts: Check daily distribution schedules
- Temple meals: Usually lunch and dinner times
- Community pantries: Weekends and evenings
- Religious festivals: Ramadan, Deepavali, Christmas for special distributions
Transport Support
If mobility is a challenge:
- Request home delivery (many programs offer this)
- Contact AIC for transport assistance: 1800 650 6060
- Use ComCare for transport vouchers
ELIGIBILITY GUIDELINES
Who Qualifies?
Most programs serve:
- Low-income households (typically under $3,000 per capita monthly income)
- Elderly unable to prepare meals
- Persons with disabilities
- Unemployed or underemployed
- Single-parent families
- Families facing temporary crisis
Citizenship Requirements
- Government programs: Singapore Citizens, PRs (with SC family member)
- Charity programs: Generally open to all residents, including non-citizens
- Religious centers: Usually no restrictions
VOLUNTEER & DONATION OPPORTUNITIES
All programs welcome:
- Volunteers: Kitchen help, food packing, delivery, administrative
- Food donations: Non-perishable items, fresh produce (check guidelines)
- Monetary donations: Tax-deductible for IPC charities
- Corporate partnerships: Bulk donations, CSR programs
FOOD TYPES SUMMARY BY PROGRAM
| Program | Food Type | Frequency | Delivery Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Willing Hearts | Hot Asian meals | Daily | Yes (70+ points) |
| Food Bank SG | Dry goods, fresh produce, frozen | Monthly rations | Through partners |
| Food from the Heart | Bread, groceries, food packs | Daily/Monthly | Limited |
| SBWS | Vegetarian meals | Twice daily (Mon-Sat) | Yes |
| ComCare | Vouchers for any food | As needed | N/A (vouchers) |
| Red Cross | Supermarket vouchers | 6 months | N/A (vouchers) |
| CDC | Vouchers | Periodic | N/A (vouchers) |
DIRECTORY OF KEY CONTACTS
Emergency Food Assistance
- ComCare Hotline: 1800 222 0000
- AIC: 1800 650 6060
- MSF: 1800 111 2222
Major Food Charities
- Willing Hearts: +65 6476 5822
- Food Bank SG: +65 9855 4805
- Food from the Heart: [email protected]
- SBWS: +65 6489 8161
Online Resources
- FoodConnect Directory: foodconnect.gov.sg/directory
- SupportGoWhere: supportgowhere.life.gov.sg
- NCSS Social Service Finder: ncss.gov.sg
- MSF ComCare: msf.gov.sg/comcare
ADDITIONAL RECOMMENDED PROGRAMS
Based on current needs, Singapore should consider:
1. Expanded Community Fridge Network
Model after successful international programs with refrigerated units in accessible locations.
2. Food Rescue Mobile Apps
Real-time notifications for surplus food availability from restaurants and supermarkets.
3. Workplace Food Assistance
Programs for working poor who may not qualify for traditional assistance but struggle with food costs.
4. Senior Meal Delivery Expansion
More comprehensive coverage for homebound elderly, especially in underserved areas.
5. Migrant Worker Food Programs
Dedicated programs for foreign workers facing food insecurity.
6. School Meal Programs
Subsidized or free breakfast/lunch for low-income students during term time.
7. Night Distribution Points
For shift workers and those unable to access daytime services.
8. Cultural-Specific Food Banks
Programs catering to dietary requirements of different communities (halal, vegetarian, kosher).
CONCLUSION
Singapore has a robust network of food assistance programs combining government support, established charities, religious organizations, and grassroots initiatives. While 10.4% of surveyed households faced food insecurity at least once within a 12-month period in 2020, the expanding range of services aims to ensure no one goes hungry.
The key to accessing help is awareness, early contact with Family Service Centres or Social Service Offices, and understanding that multiple forms of assistance can be accessed simultaneously. All programs maintain confidentiality and aim to preserve dignity while providing essential support.
Last Updated: January 2025
Note: Program details, contact information, and operating hours may change. Always verify directly with organizations before visiting.
For immediate food assistance needs, call ComCare: 1800 222 0000