SINGAPORE – For nearly two decades, residents at Henderson Heights have relied on the We Love Learning (WeLL) Centre, located at the foot of Block 93 Henderson Road. This cherished space, covering approximately 420 sq m, has transformed into a hub for education, community engagement, and essential support services, making a significant impact since its inception in 2005.
A Focal Point for Community Support
The WeLL Centre has served multiple roles—tuition centre, library, and a provider of free groceries and used electronics. Run by dedicated grassroots volunteers, this centre helped foster a strong sense of community among residents of Blocks 91, 92, and 93. However, the Housing Development Board (HDB) has announced that residents will be relocated to rental flats throughout Singapore as part of ongoing development plans, leading to the eventual closure of the centre by May 2025.
Heartfelt Testimonials from Residents
Many locals have shared their stories, highlighting the integral role the centre played in their lives. Ms Diyana Abdullah, a single mother of three, noted how the support she received from WeLL helped her family adjust and thrive. “I felt alone when I moved here in 2010,” she recalled, “but the centre introduced me to people who truly wanted to support me and my children.”
- Free tuition for up to 300 students at its peak
- Monthly activities and talks under the Super Mummies programme
- Regular distribution of fresh vegetables and essential items
Building Educational Bridges
Started in 2003 as a storytelling club, the WeLL Centre evolved into a comprehensive support system, aiding children from pre-school to secondary school. It became a launchpad for success stories, with students going on to graduate from institutes like the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) and various polytechnics.
Mr Soh Chee Keong, 70, honorary chairman of the Henderson-Dawson Citizens’ Consultative Committee, expressed the centre’s goal of providing equal opportunities for students in rental flats. He remarked, “We wanted to ensure these children received as much academic support as possible to improve their family’s future.”
The Impact of Community Connections
The sense of community fostered by the WeLL Centre resonated deeply with residents. Ms Murni Indrayani shared how the Super Mummies programme equipped her with parenting skills while introducing her to lifelong friends. She valued the support received, like second-hand items that eased her family’s financial burden.
For hawker Loo Kok Hua, the centre’s free tuition was a game-changer for his children’s academic journey, paving their way to higher education. As he optimistically noted, “We will miss the volunteers who have really helped us through the years.”
Looking Ahead
Despite its impending closure, the WeLL Centre is facilitating a transition for the residents, working with moving companies to offer discounted services and assisting elderly community members in packing and moving. As the heart of Henderson Heights prepares to relocate, its legacy of support and community spirit is one that residents will carry with them.