$700,000 to fund programmes supporting youth with autism

Nineteen-year-old Izhan loves to help his mother whenever she bakes, asking her questions and taking care of simple tasks such as separating the muffin paper cups.

However, he was known to throw tantrums whenever there were sudden changes in plans, and would need help with simple things such as finding utensils in the kitchen.

Izhan, who has been diagnosed with moderate autism, graduated from St Andrew's Autism School last year including vocational training by St Andrew's Autism Centre.

The teen is currently waiting for a spot at the Day Activity Centre.

His mother, 44-year-old Rossiana, told The New Paper that she was initially worried about Izhan not being able to cope with work, with the training conducted after school.

But she noticed an improvement in his behaviour since attending the programme. Izhan became more independent, responsible and positive.

Madam Rossiana, a customer service representative, felt relieved that her son was happier and able to do things on his own. The programme gave him something to look forward to and empowered him with his own earnings.

The change in her son gives Madam Rossiana hope that Izhan can find a job in the future and live independently.

To better support youth with autism like Izhan, SP Group on March 25 announced a donation of $700,000 towards St Andrew's Autism Centre.

This will fund a vocational training programme that will support over 400 youth with moderate autism and their caregivers.

It will also help address the "post-18 cliff", where young adults with autism struggle to find employment after completing their formal education at 18.

One such programme is Dignity of Work, a pilot aimed at providing structured employment pathways for individuals with autism.

The trainees will receive a full-year sponsorship and training in a structured, supportive setting that caters to their learning needs.

Funding has also facilitated the upgrading of SAAC's three kitchen spaces at its Siglap campus to accommodate bigger cohorts training in baking and food preparation.

SP's support will also provide financial assistance to lower-income caregivers, whose children will receive therapy, training, 24/7 care and programmes that help them develop independence and improve their overall well-being.

SAAC CEO Bernard Chew highlighted how SP Group's generous support will be transformative for students and their caregivers, enabling the youth to build work skills in a structured and autism-friendly environment.

"They can take comfort in knowing that their loved ones have the necessary skills to be active contributors in society."