Depressed Singapore mum-of-five appeals for help to support her family

"All I'm asking for, is a second chance in life to change my family's situation", says Singapore mum-of-five Marina Ali.

"Sometimes I even think of ending my life...I feel like a useless mum..."

Singapore mum needs help

Marina tells theAsianparent, "I'm a mother of 5 young kids, aged 9, 8, 5, 3 and 1. My 8-year-old boy has ADHD and is on daily medication."

"My 5-year-old girl is now suspected of having ADHD as well. My youngest child is a preemie and requires special formula."

"Currently, my husband is the only one working, and with his salary of $1,800 we are struggling. We are staying in a 1-room rental flat. CDC helps us with $110 per month."

"My 10-year-old is in P4 with school finance assistance. Both my 4-year-old and 2-year-old are in child care from FSC assistance."

Marina wants to work to support the family, but is currently on medication for depression. The last time she went for work, the kids fell sick and she had to take leave.

"So, the company was not happy and I was asked to leave. After getting the job I felt so much better, and my confidence grew, but after I was asked to leave, I felt hopeless."

"Sometimes I even think of ending my life...I feel like a useless mum..."

Wants to support her family

The family's financial assistance will end in May 2018, and Marina hopes she can start working and won't need more aid.

She wants to take her driving license now, so that she can take up delivery jobs and have the flexibility of caring for her children when necessary.

"Unfortunately, driving is not something you can take grant from Skills Future Credit", she says.

"I’m trying to stand on my own two feet...together with my husband, we hope to provide the necessary basic needs for my family."

A fund-raising campaign has been set up on Give.Asia for Marina. 

She says, "I need help in taking my license...Please help me. I have tried many organizations but no one wants to help. I really can't face any more rejection, and at the same time I don't want to depend on CDC for so long."

"Please help me if you can. All I'm asking for, is a second chance in life to change my family's situation."

Let's help this mum out in whatever way we can. To donate to Marina's campaign, please click here.

Also READ: Singapore mums who want to return to work, there's good news for you!