Overview

Overview

A Journey of Empowerment Since 1969

Founded in 1969 by a group of 23 individuals, HWA (formerly Handicaps Welfare Association) was established to promote self-help and provide mutual support for persons with disabilities in Singapore. Today, HWA continues to serve as an organisation run by persons with disabilities, for persons with disabilities.

HWA was first registered as the Singapore Handicaps Friendship Club. In 1975, it became known as the Singapore Association for the Disabled before officially adopting the name Handicaps Welfare Association in 1976.

Over the years, members shared that they no longer identified with the term “handicaps.” In response, the organisation adopted the name “HWA”, reflecting its commitment to respecting the voices of its members and embracing language that upholds dignity, inclusion, and empowerment.

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A Journey of Empowerment Since 1969

Founded in 1969 by a group of 23 individuals, HWA (formerly Handicaps Welfare Association) was established to promote self-help and provide mutual support for persons with disabilities in Singapore. Today, Handicaps Welfare Association continues to serve as an organisation run by persons with disabilities, for persons with disabilities.

HWA was first registered as the Singapore Handicaps Friendship Club. In 1975, it became known as the Singapore Association for the Disabled before officially adopting the name Handicaps Welfare Association in 1976.

Over the years, members shared that they no longer identified with the term “handicaps.” In response, the organisation adopted the name “HWA,” reflecting its commitment to respecting the voices of its members and embracing language that upholds dignity, inclusion, and empowerment.

From Small Gatherings to Strong Organisation

HWA’s journey began with the simplest of intentions—bringing people together. In its early days, the Association operated without an office or dedicated staff, hosting small social gatherings in a church library. Even basic refreshments were made possible through the personal contributions of its leaders.

Over the years, HWA has grown into a well-established and respected organisation. Today, it proudly supports 1,954 members, the majority of whom are persons with physical disabilities. Based in a repurposed school building along Whampoa Drive, HWA is equipped with dedicated offices and facilities, and supported by a committed team of staff.

Since 1969, HWA has expanded beyond social activities, developing a comprehensive range of services and initiatives to better support the evolving needs of its community.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form and processing my donation, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing the personal data provided for the following purposes:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time by following the procedures in the Personal Data Protection Policy or by contacting the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg. I acknowledge that certain statutory data (such as financial and tax records) may be retained in accordance with prevailing legal obligations despite a withdrawal request.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form and submitting my inquiry or feedback, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing the personal data provided for the following purposes:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time by following the procedures in the Personal Data Protection Policy or by contacting the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg. I acknowledge that certain data may be retained in accordance with prevailing legal or operational obligations despite a withdrawal request.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing my personal data provided above for the purposes of:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time. To exercise these rights, or for any data protection inquiries, I can submit a request via the channels outlined in the Personal Data Protection Policy or directly contact the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing the personal data provided above for the following purposes:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time. To exercise these rights, or for any data protection inquiries, I can submit a request via the channels outlined in the Personal Data Protection Policy or directly contact the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing the personal data provided above for the following purposes:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time. To exercise these rights, or for any data protection inquiries, I can submit a request via the channels outlined in the Personal Data Protection Policy or directly contact the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg.

Consent to Collection, Use, and Disclosure of Personal Data

By submitting this form, I agree and consent to HWA collecting, using, and disclosing the personal data provided above for the following purposes:

I understand that I retain the right to withdraw my consent, access, or correct my personal data at any time. To exercise these rights, or for any data protection inquiries, I can submit a request via the channels outlined in the Personal Data Protection Policy or directly contact the Data Protection Officer at dpo@hwa.org.sg.

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