Community Development Councils (CDCs)

The concept of Community Development Councils was introduced in 1996 to foster community bonding among residents. Community bonds are strengthened when the community's social needs are met by its own members. There are nine CDCs in Singapore. Each CDC will initiate, plan and manage community policies and programmes such as medifund, edusave scholarships and bursaries, study loans, and other assistance schemes. CDCs will also work with other related agencies to develop the community and strengthen social cohesion.

Their Mission
To be the people's partner in achieving community bonding and social cohesion.

Their Vision
A vibrant community with one heart.

CDC Structure
Singapore will be divided into several communities based on contiguous neighbourhoods. The CDC may or may not cover the same electoral boundaries. It will also cover an area with at least 150,000 residents. Furthermore, it will be managed by a Council comprising the Chairman and members. The Council will have between 12 to 50 members. The CDC is governed by the CDC Rules 1997.

Functions of the CDC
A CDC initiates, plans and manages community policies and programmes. These include Medifund, Edusave scholarships and bursaries, study loans, community libraries, recreational facilities and the various assistance schemes under the Ministry of Community Development & Sports (MCDS) such as the Public Assistance (PA) Scheme for destitutes and Small Families Improvement Scheme (SFIS), and the Rent and Utilities Assistance Scheme (RUAS) currently administered by the National Council of Social Service (NCSS). In addition, the CDC will also organise mega community projects to cater to the needsof the old, young, the poor and the handicapped.

Funding of the CDCs
Each CDC is provided with a start-up grant of $1 per resident living in that CDC. In addition, sources of funds can come from well-wishers. For every $1 donated, the government will top-up $3. If a person donates through GIRO, the government tops up $4 for every $1. These funds will be channelled into the activities and projects carried out by the CDC.

Regardless of our background, race or creed, we are one Community. We have strong ties as...

A Family

A Community of both Old & Young

 

A Community of Passionate People

A People of All Races