Arc Children’s Centre: A Sanctuary of Joy and Hope for Children With Cancer and Other Life-Threatening Illnesses

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The silent battle against cancer and other life-threatening illnesses perpetuates within the walls of hospitals, sparing no one, not even the most vulnerable of children.

As Singapore’s first day-care centre devoted to children battling cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, Arc Children’s Centre not only offers support and care to these young warriors and their families, it also stands as a sanctuary and beacon of joy and hope, providing solace and support in their challenging time.

Three children facing the teaching showing a bus image
Drawing heart ballon
A boy and A girl raiding cycle

Vision, Mission & Values

Our Vision

For every child who comes, to find joy again.

Our Mission

Provide a sanctuary for each child’s holistic development and learning

Inspire confidence to lead a fulfilling life

Nurture a supportive community for the children and their families

Just as an arc refers to part of a circumference of a circle, we at Arc Children’s Centre are committed to forming a meaningful part of the Circle of Care for children in need.

Arc Children's Centre

Like how a star lights up the night sky, our star shows that hope can illuminate even the weariest heart. Arc aims to be a sanctuary where hope shines for the children and families in our care.
Our star icon consists of 5 arcs. Each arc represents one of our 5 core values.

Our Values

Our Values - Simplicity

To first and foremost meet the basic needs of the families in our care, while giving thanks to life’s simple gifts

Our Values - Joy

Uplift the children and their families with the spirit of joyous giving

Our Values - Compassion

Love is at the heart of all we do and the reason we are passionate about helping these children in need

Our Values - Support

We offer families a foundation of hope to build upon during difficult times

Our Values - Commitment

Our steadfast team of staff and volunteers are devoted to the well-being of the children and families in our care

Our History

It all began with a boy named Raphael.

Raphael was a brave little boy who lost his fight with cancer. Before his passing, Raphael had shared that his hope was for children to have a safe, welcoming place to rest and spend the day. His selfless wish is what spurred the creation of Arc, so other children like Raphael will benefit. The “R” in our name is a loving tribute to him.

Since July 2011, Arc has helped more than 290 children with cancer or a life-threatening illness and more than 100 of their siblings. As an independent charity centre, everything we do for the kids is made possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of public donations and corporate sponsorships.

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Milestones

Holistic Approach

Arc Children’s Centre embodies a holistic approach that forms a comprehensive support system for our children. Hope is woven into every aspect of our centre, creating a positive and vibrant refuge where each child receives tailored support and compassionate attention to their journey. Our dedication to holistic care, addressing the mind, body, and spirit, fosters resilience and promotes healing. Together, we strive for a future where no child battles alone, and hope becomes a tangible reality.

Comprehensive Educational and Support Care Programmes

Understanding the multifaceted nature of the cancer journey, Arc Children’s Centre offers comprehensive support beyond medical treatment. Our Educational Support and Therapeutic Activities are carefully designed to address psychological and social needs alongside clinical care. These programmes provide tools and resources to navigate illness with resilience and hope, fostering a sense of normalcy during challenging times.

Children at Arc Children's Centre doing art and crafts

Tailored Educational Activities

Educational pursuits at Arc Children’s Centre are designed with each child’s abilities and medical journey in mind. We establish learning plans, conduct comprehensive assessments, and provide interactive curriculum aligned with the national syllabus. Flexible scheduling ensures consistent engagement without overwhelming the child, empowering them to continue personal growth amidst medical challenges.

Little girl places her arms above head to make the shape of a heart with numbers learning cards on the floor

Emotional and Psychological Support Services

Recognising the emotional toll of critical illness, Arc Children’s Centre offers empathetic and expert interventions to nurture mental well-being. Psycho-social support is integrated into every programme, addressing emotional distress with therapeutic interventions.

Our approach extends to the family unit, creating a network of support that alleviates stress and strengthens relationships during trying times. We aim to instil hope and foster emotional recuperation, ensuring each child’s spirit thrives alongside their physical health.

Family-Centric Approach

Arc Children’s Centre embraces a family-centric model of care, recognising the profound emotional impact of childhood illness on families. Our interdisciplinary teams collaborate to provide integrated services for the family and child, fostering resilience and camaraderie in shared experiences.

Group photo of Arc Children and volunteers in Chinese New Year clothings

Respite for Caregivers

We understand the tireless dedication of caregivers nurturing ailing children amidst challenging circumstances. Providing moments of respite is crucial to sustain their well-being and the quality of care they offer. Through supervised programmes, children receive care in a safe environment while caregivers have valuable time for self-care.

Sibling Inclusion Initiatives

Siblings often carry the emotional weight of a child’s illness, yet their needs are sometimes overlooked. At Arc Children’s Centre, we provide inclusive programmes and safe spaces where siblings can express themselves and connect with peers who understand their experiences. Counselling services, workshops, and educational resources are also available to support siblings in maintaining a balanced family dynamic.

Two young boys popping out from toy school bus with hands up

Building a Supportive Community

Our community is built on empathy, care, and resilience, with volunteers playing a vital role in enriching the lives of children and families facing life-threatening illnesses. Volunteers can engage in various activities, from providing direct child support to participating in outreach and advocacy efforts. Together, we create a sanctuary where children and families find solace, strength, and hope amidst adversity.

Volunteers guiding children doing art and crafts

Fundraising and Community Outreach

As a registered IPC charity, Arc Children’s Centre relies on public donations to sustain our services. Partnerships with organisations and volunteers facilitate donations and outreach efforts. Our annual charity gala serves as a fundraising event and celebration of resilience, uniting the community in support of our cause. The generous contributions enable us to continue serving children and families facing cancer and other life-threatening illnesses, providing comfort and joy on their challenging journeys.

We express heartfelt gratitude to all who contribute, helping us lighten the burdens carried by these resilient children.

More Arc years 2022 One Promise event stage with children on stage

Code of Governance

Arc Children’s Centre is dedicated to upholding sound governance and management practices in alignment with the Code of Governance for Charities and Institutions of a Public Character (IPC). You can access our Code of Governance here.

bus drawing
Joanne Consigliere, Volunteer
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Arc has lived up to its values.

It has shown me what courage really looks like and made me realise how petty some of the things I constantly worry about are.

– Joanne Consigliere, Volunteer