1971-1975: The Early Steps
1971
Founding of Presbyterian Urban Industrial Mission Committee (PRISM)
In early 1971, the Synod of the Presbyterian Church in Singapore-Malaysia appointed the Presbyterian Urban Industrial Mission Committee (PUIM) to explore social missions in the urban context. The committee, later known as PRISM, was formed to address the growing needs of the urban community.
On 1 July 1974, PCS received the keys for its first centre, Heng Teck Centre, located at Block 113, Jalan Bukit Merah View. This centre served as a space for tuition classes, playgroups, and adult English classes. By 6 January 1975, it officially opened its Play Group for 13 students.
1974–1975
Establishment of First Centre
1975-2025: Key Milestones
Looking Ahead
PCS is commemorating its 50th anniversary, a significant milestone that reflects our unwavering commitment to providing compassionate care and empowering communities
On 26 November 1999, after obtaining approval from the Registry of Societies, the organization officially changed its name to Presbyterian Community Services to better reflect its expanding scope of welfare services in Singapore.
1999
Renaming to Presbyterian Community Services (PCS)
2002
Grace Orchard School Established
In January 2002, Grace Orchard School opened its doors to serve children with special needs, providing education to students with mild intellectual disabilities and autism. In 2009, the school moved to a purpose-built campus at Jurong West Street 52.
Gladiolus Place was established in 1998 as a residential home for teenage girls facing abuse, neglect, or delinquency. It serves as a safe environment for the girls to rebuild their lives.
2005
Gladiolus Place (formally known as Andrew & Grace Home)
2014
40th Anniversary and Growth in Services
By 2014, PCS had grown significantly, with 15 centres providing a variety of services across children and eldercare sectors. PCS introduced programs for children with special needs and expanded its childcare services to meet growing demands.
PCS was awarded the Partner Operator status by the Early Childhood Development Agency (ECDA) in 2016, marking a significant recognition of its efforts in providing quality childcare services. This was renewed for a second term in 2021.
2016
Gladiolus Place (Andrew & Grace Home)
2018
Innovation in Education and Employment Pathways for Special Needs Youth
In 2018, PCS launched the Educarer Aide Training (ECAT) program, which provided career training for young adults with special needs in preschool settings. This program received multiple awards, including the MOE-NCSS Innovation Award and the SGEnable Employers Enabling Award (Innovation).
The 2018 Leadership Summit focused on exploring new, innovative pathways for supporting special needs youth in education and employment. This culminated in the launch of several key initiatives, including the Educarer Aide Training.
2018-2019
Leadership Summit and Transdisciplinary Approach
2021
Incorporation of Presbyterian Preschool Services
On 17 August 2021, the Presbyterian Preschool Services (PPS) was incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee to oversee and manage all PCS childcare services, with a renewed focus on service quality and early childhood ministry.
2023
Institute of Special Programmes and Continual Equipping (iSPACE)
In March 2022, PCS rebranded its Training Academy to the Institute of Special Programmes and Continual Equipping (iSPACE) to better equip its staff and volunteers. It expanded to offer workshops on specialized care for young adults with special needs in the workplace and education.
In 2025, PCS officially opened The Good Place at One Holland Village, a new community space dedicated to fostering inclusivity and well-being for individuals with special needs. This initiative aims to provide a collaborative, supportive environment for both individuals and families, further extending PCS's outreach in the community.
2025
Opening of The Good Place at One Holland Village
On 22 July 1975, PRISM was officially registered with the Registry of Societies under the name Presbyterian Welfare Services, marking its formal establishment as a charity. The organization began its first social services outreach, providing education and care in the community.
1975
Registration as Presbyterian Welfare Services
1985
Membership in the National Council of Social Service (NCSS)
PCS became a Full Member of the National Council of Social Service in 1985, strengthening its position in the social service sector.
Dorcas Home Care, initiated in 1990, began in October 1992 at Block 113, Bukit Merah View to provide home meals and other essential services for frail elderly. Over time, it expanded to offer medical escorts and grocery services.
1990–1992
Elder and Homecare Services
1995
Emergency Relief Scheme Established
In September 1995, PCS launched the Emergency Relief Scheme to provide short-term financial assistance to families in need, which has since supported over $1.5 million in aid to vulnerable individuals.
In May 2022, PCS was awarded the Interim Caregiver Service by the Ministry of Health to provide temporary homecare for seniors discharged from hospitals awaiting long-term care.
2022
Interim Caregiver Service and Expanded Elderly Care Programs
2029: Hub for Integrated Services (HIS Hub)
In 2029, PCS plans to open the Hub for Integrated Services (HIS Hub) at the former Hong Kah Secondary School site. This facility will house Grace Orchard School, the Institute of Special Programmes and Continual Equipping (iSPACE), and a Sheltered Workshop for youth with special needs.