THE Association of Muslim Professionals (AMP) has introduced an aid package for retrenched Malay-Muslim workers and families hit by the downturn.
To fund the Temporary Assistance Package (TAP), as it has been named, AMP is using $500,000 from its reserves.
The approximately 200 families expected to benefit from the TAP will get between $2,500 and $3,000 worth of assistance every month. It will go towards the paying of arrears and other expenses.
Individuals will also get help to find jobs and to brush up on their job skills under existing national training programmes.
With aid from TAP, they can pay the part of the course fees that is not covered by government subsidies. They can also use the money for transport.
In addition, they can be trained to set up small businesses so that their families can have an alternative source of income.
Nearly half the sum - about $225,000 - has been set aside to fund education bursaries for the children of those retrenched, as well as to cover their examination fees and transport to and from school. This is to ensure that their education does not suffer with the loss of the family income.
Those who were retrenched in or after October last year and have school-going children qualify for it.
Among other conditions, the family must now not be earning more than $2,500 a month.
Case management officers from AMP will help individuals on the TAP draw up plans that they will follow through for up to a year, until they find jobs and get back on their feet. Those still unable to land jobs then will be referred to other schemes that are better able to help them.
Ms Hameet Khanee J. Hussain, the senior manager in AMP, said the TAP would keep recession-hit families close-knit so they can face the tough times together.
She expressed hope that, after a year on the help scheme, the families would be left in better shape than before the recession.
The AMP would dip into its reserves again if needed, she said.
Interested individuals may now apply through the AMP helpline on 6416-3960, or at its office in 1, Pasir Ris Drive 4.
