“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord,
“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
~ Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)
Twelve-year-old Alex (not his real name) has faced significant challenges throughout his life. Diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia, he struggled in school, found it difficult to focus in class and was failing English. His difficulties were compounded by very difficult family circumstances. Overwhelmed and disheartened, Alex’s journey was marked by obstacles beyond his control. Due to his family circumstances, he was placed in Chen Su Lan Methodist Children’s Home (CSLMCH), a home that was established in 1968 for needy and disadvantaged children.
A transformation rooted in belief
In 2023, Alex’s life began to change when he enrolled in a learning support programme for vulnerable children, supported by World Vision Singapore in partnership with the Dyslexia Association of Singapore (DAS).
Through this initiative, Alex received the individualised support he needed. The DAS Main Literacy Programme, designed to build critical literacy skills in a nurturing environment, became a lifeline for him.
“I feel more confident in class now,” Alex shared. “I like spelling and want to get better at it. The lessons have been so helpful to me.”
His educational therapist, Sujatha, reflected on Alex’s progress with pride: “It is heart-warming to see how Alex has overcome his challenges like a true champion. He has always been an eager and determined learner. I am confident that with perseverance, he can conquer many more mountains.”
Through consistent effort and the support of those who believed in him, Alex went through a profound transformation in his attitude towards learning, and achieved what once seemed impossible. From failing his English assessments, he rose to score an impressive 83 marks in his mid-year exam in 2024.
James Goh, Alex’s caseworker at CSLMCH, also remarked on the change: “Alex is now able to sustain longer periods of learning and is highly motivated to improve. His progress is truly inspiring.”
A testimony of God’s grace
Alex’s journey of resilience and determination is a testament to the power of faith, support, and the transformative love of God working through His people. It reflects World Vision’s commitment to ensuring every child can experience Jesus’ promise of abundant life in John 10:10 (NIV): “I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full.”
Benjamin Tan, CEO of World Vision Singapore, shared his heart for this mission: “As a global Christian humanitarian organisation, World Vision recognises that children in out-of-home settings are among the most vulnerable in any country. Many of them carry deep wounds from abuse, abandonment and neglect. When such challenges are further compounded with special learning needs as in Alex’s case, it becomes a profound hindrance to education, and further erodes self-esteem.”
He continued, “In partnership with CSLMCH and DAS, World Vision Singapore has committed to supporting Singaporean with special learning needs in out-of-home care, on their journey of learning and healing in 2025. We firmly believe that education is a powerful enabler for all children to build brighter futures. Through God’s grace, we are working to provide them with the tools and support they need to thrive, reflecting his love and promise revealed in Psalm 147:3, to restore and uplift the broken-hearted.”
Empowered for the future
World Vision Singapore, in collaboration with agencies in the out-of-home care sector and specialised learning support providers, advocates for vulnerable children. By raising funds to cover the cost of learning programmes and needs assessments where necessary, World Vision ensures these children have the resources to overcome their barriers to learning.
As Alex continues to navigate his educational path with newfound confidence and determination, his story stands as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of support and advocacy in empowering severely disadvantaged children with special learning needs. With each milestone he conquers and every challenge he overcomes, Alex embodies the resilience and tenacity that define his journey towards personal growth and triumph, inspiring all those around him to believe in the boundless potential that lies within every child.
“Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old, he will not depart from it.” ~Proverbs 22:6