Oasis Primary School has raised more than S$16,500 to support The Straits Times School Pocket Money Fund (STSPMF) as part of its 10th anniversary celebrations. The fundraising effort, which combined recess donations from students with online contributions from parents and staff, culminated in a cheque presentation ceremony held on October 1 at the school’s Punggol campus.
The initiative aimed not only to assist children from low-income families but also to instill a sense of empathy and community responsibility in Oasis Primary pupils. Alongside the fundraising drive, the school organized a range of activities including literacy and art festivals, songwriting sessions linked to National Day, and a commemorative art installation unveiled on Children’s Day. The installation featured hand-decorated wooden pieces signed by staff and students, assembled into a wave-like formation representing water droplets.
School leaders underscored that the fundraising effort went beyond simply collecting donations. In the weeks leading up to the drive, students took part in activities designed to deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by less fortunate peers. Following the collection, pupils dedicated time for reflection and discussions on how to continue contributing positively to their community.
Claire Liu, a Primary 5 student, expressed satisfaction in contributing her own pocket money to the fund. “It made me feel happy because I know it will help friends in my school who need help,” she said. “It showed me that sharing is important and can make others feel better.”
Principal Danny Poh highlighted the broader message behind the anniversary projects. “As we celebrate our school’s 10th anniversary this year, we want Oasis pupils to know that in addition to celebrating our growth and achievements, showing our love for the community is also important,” he said. He added that through the fundraising effort, students learned how small acts of kindness can have a meaningful impact on others. Poh also acknowledged the collective support from the school community, including parents, staff, the school advisory committee (SAC), and other friends of Oasis.
SAC chairman David Leow expressed satisfaction with the school’s progress over the past decade. “It is heartening to see that over the years, the school has continued to nurture its students with love, care and compassion,” he remarked.
Founded in 2000, the STSPMF provides pocket money to children from families with per capita gross monthly household incomes not exceeding S$1,000. The scheme allocates monthly allowances of S$65 for primary school pupils, S$100 for secondary students, and S$125 for those in junior colleges, polytechnics, and the Institute of Technical Education. The fund aims to help alleviate financial pressures for low-income families and support children’s schooling needs.