Singapore, 23 August 2025 – In a bid to encourage more families to foster older youth, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) has announced a raise in monthly allowances for foster parents caring for teenagers, along with the removal of former income and education eligibility criteria.
Elevated Support for Foster Youth
Starting in November 2025, foster caregivers looking after teenagers aged 13 and above will now receive S$1,300 per month—up from the previous S$1,100. For teens with special or medical needs, the allowance will rise to S$1,800, an increase from S$1,500.
Streamlining the Path to Fostering
MSF has also eliminated both the minimum household income and educational prerequisites for prospective foster parents. These requirements, in place until mid‑2024, were scrapped effective July last year, widening access to the scheme.
At the Fostering Open House held at Suntec Singapore, Minister of State Goh Pei Ming highlighted that these changes aim to inspire more couples to consider fostering teen youth. “While many foster parents naturally gravitate towards caring for younger children, teenagers also benefit deeply from the care and consistency of a family environment”.
When Allowance Ends
The increased fostering allowance will continue until the youth turns 21, begins full-time employment or national service, or upon completion or termination of studies.
Why This Matters for the ASEAN Region
- Turning the spotlight on adolescent welfare: There’s often a shortage of foster placements for teenagers, who face unique developmental challenges. This initiative recognizes their needs and supports caregivers more robustly.
- Inclusivity through simplicity: By removing income and educational hurdles, MSF is casting a wider net—encouraging a broader, more diverse pool of foster families.
- Setting a precedent: Southeast Asian policymakers and NGOs may watch this move as a model for bolstering adolescent-focused foster care schemes in their own regions.
Source: CNA
