TAMAR VILLAGE
Empower
Growth
"To bring Hope, Help and Healing to people who will rebuild, restore and renew relationships and communities."
Our Journey with Tamar Village
In 2010, Tamar Village was birthed in Singapore as an outreach to individuals impacted by the red-light sector. What began as simple street walks grew into a community of hope — offering friendship, practical help, and a safe place for restoration.
One conviction shaped our heartbeat:
From the start, we chose to journey with one person at a time, building authentic relationships that bring hope, help, and healing.
“Restoration takes time, love, and
consistent presence.”
Vision and Mission
Our vision is to walk alongside individuals and families who have chosen to leave the trades of the red-light sector, journeying with them into new life.
We commit to:
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HOPE — Nurturing dreams, setting goals, and walking through life’s milestones.
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HELP — Supporting practical needs: overcoming addictions, housing, finances, health, and careers.
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HEALING — Restoring dignity and worth through community and supportive relationships.
Our Values
We set out to model values that guide our ministry and reflect our heart:
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Humility in service
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Care for families and co-workers
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Patience and teamwork across generations
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Integrity and honesty
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Forgiveness and learning from mistakes
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Unity, honour, and joyful persistence
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Embarked on 3,500+ street outreach walks, engaging individuals in the red-light sector.
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Provided food and drinks for hundreds over more than 10 years, showing care in moments of need.
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Held health workshops, raising awareness on healthcare and safe practices.
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Supported the reintegration of individuals affected by homelessness or the red-light sector.
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Journeyed with 100+ individuals in long-term restoration, some for over a decade.
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Launched Open Homes, offering temporary housing and family-like support.
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Helped secure housing solutions and reconnect individuals with social services.
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Provided tuition and care for children for over 12 years, giving stability and hope.
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Empowered six individuals to start small businesses, creating pathways out of poverty.
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Saw children and teens re-enter education, gaining a second chance at life.
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Partnered with hundreds of volunteers, businesses, and organizations in shared mission.
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Witnessed volunteers and partners grow in compassion and generosity through service.
Key Milestones and Impact Over the Years
A New Season
In 2024, after much reflection, we recognised that Tamar Village had fulfilled its pioneering role. For 14 years, it was a catalytic expression that helped fill a gap when individuals affected by the red-light sector were underserved. Today, we are grateful to see new ministries and initiatives rise to continue this vital work.
As a team, we felt it was time to bring closure to the Tamar Village expression. We believe this season has accomplished its purpose, and we look forward to exploring fresh ways to serve the vulnerable with deeper impact.
Gratitude
We are deeply thankful to every volunteer, partner, and supporter who journeyed with us. Your time, service, and generosity have been invaluable. Though Tamar Village has concluded this season of pioneering, our relationships with many individuals remain — through simple acts of care like birthday celebrations, home visits, and ongoing support.
Our mission continues: to walk alongside the vulnerable with compassion, practical help, and friendship that restores dignity and hope.
Our Timeline
(2010–2024)
2010 – Beginning the Journey
Founded by Shih Shu Hui and Lois Loh, Tamar Village began with simple street walks, reaching out in Singapore’s red-light sector.
2011 – Building a Foundation
Came under Mercy Centre Ltd. A Skill Centre opened, offering classes in baking, jewellery, and crafts, creating new opportunities for women.
2012 – Caring for Children
Volunteer Rachel Seah started SHINE Kids (later ACORN), offering tuition and holistic care that gave stability to families and hope to children.
2013–2014 – Sewing and Counselling
A woman’s courage sparked the first sewing program. Counselling followed, and more women left the trade, finding healing and transformation.
2015–2016 – Expanding Hearts and Homes
Under Mercy Ho, the Centre was renovated to reflect dignity and hope. The Open Homes initiative began, and families secured stable housing.
2017–2019 – The Restoration Centre
Launched to bring life skills, therapy, and work training together. New programs included barista, woodworking, cooking, gardening, leather-making, and retail.
2020 – Towards Empowerment
Beneficiaries stepped into CPF-paying jobs and worked toward home ownership. Two social enterprises were launched for employment.
2021–2023 – Flourishing Futures
Led by Rachel Chow and team, the focus shifted to empowerment and employment. Many “graduated” into stable jobs and new life chapters.
2024 – A Season Concludes with Gratitude
After 14 meaningful years, Tamar Village has come to the end of a season — having fulfilled its pioneering role — one defined by restoration, hope, and impact. Many lives were touched through the dedication of our volunteers, partners, and friends. We are deeply thankful for every hand and heart that made this journey possible.