Every mother worries about her child, but for 78-year-old Mdm Tan Hum Seow, those worries run deeper. Her son, Mr Cheng Chiang Yong, 55, has an intellectual disability and is partially blind in his right eye and completely blind in his left.
In a society that doesn’t always understand or accommodate differences, Mr Cheng’s challenges go far beyond learning to care for himself. From unkind stares in public to limited opportunities, the world can be unwelcoming and even unfair to those with special needs.
Despite the odds, Chiang Yong has carved his own path with remarkable resilience and perseverance. Since joining TOUCH Centre for Independent Living in 1990, and later moving to TOUCH Ubi Hostel in 2006, he has not only learnt to care for himself, but also had the opportunity to discover and develop his artistic talents.
Today, Chiang Yong earns an income as a packer and also through his artwork under JOURNEY, a brand under TOUCH that showcases the artistic talents of people with intellectual disabilities.
Chiang Yong’s journey is a powerful testament to what’s possible when people with special needs are supported by a strong and caring community. With the right support, he has not only overcome his challenges but truly thrived.
Your support goes beyond providing resources; it opens doors, creates opportunities, and allows individuals like Chiang Yong to realise their full potential.
Everyone deserves the chance to succeed, regardless of their circumstances. Whether they are children chasing their dreams, families growing to be resilient, people with special and wellness needs receiving opportunities, caregivers and those they care for, or the elderly living out their best years, everyone can be empowered and valued.
With your help, we can build a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to dream bigger, achieve more, and live with confidence, purpose, and hope.
- $30/month provides a home-bound senior with nutritious meals.
- $50/month provides a child from a low-income family with mentoring support to realise his or her potential
- $100/month provides counselling support for an individual facing mental wellness challenges
- $200/month provides an individual with special needs with training to build skills for independent living