Starbucks Opens First Community Store in Singapore at Gardens by the Bay to Support Mental Wellness

Earlier last week, Starbucks officially launched its first Community Store in Singapore at Active Garden, Gardens by the Bay, dedicated to supporting mental wellness.

The store was inaugurated by Ms. Sun Xueling, Minister of State for Social and Family Development, alongside Starbucks representatives and local partners. This new initiative aligns with Starbucks’ ongoing commitment to creating inclusive, community-centered spaces where individuals can connect and find support.

Amid a rising need for mental health resources in Singapore—where about one in three young people experience symptoms of depression, anxiety, or stress—Starbucks has partnered with Gardens by the Bay and MINDSET Care Limited to foster mental wellness.

For each beverage sold at the Community Store, Starbucks will donate 20 cents toward workshops and activities that benefit mental wellness organisations.

The store’s serene design integrates the lush scenery of Gardens by the Bay and includes informational panels promoting self-care, while art installations celebrate human connections.

“Starbucks has always been dedicated to nurturing the limitless possibilities of human connection,” shared Mr. Patrick Kwok, General Manager at Starbucks Singapore. “With this Community Store, we aim to make a positive impact and champion mental wellness within our local communities.”

Minister Sun Xueling expressed her support for the initiative, noting that “Starbucks’ donation for each cup sold will help spread mental health awareness and support caregivers, who also need to prioritise their own mental well-being.”

The highlight of the new Starbucks Community Store is its collaboration with Gardens by the Bay, supporting the Gardens’ Gift of Gardens initiative, which offers workshops and activities for the public and vulnerable groups.

Beneficiaries from Caregivers Alliance Limited joined the launch event to enjoy a sensorial coffee experience and a kokedama plant-making workshop led by Gardens by the Bay volunteers.

The Community Store will continue funding monthly mental wellness workshops, including sessions on aromatherapy, journaling, and coffee appreciation.

Additionally, “Wellness Friday,” hosted every second Friday of the month, invites seniors and caregivers from social service agencies to engage in gardening, mindfulness activities, and guided sensory tours.

Furthermore, Starbucks employees will volunteer alongside Gardens by the Bay staff, providing seniors from nursing homes with enriching visits to the Gardens, all aimed at promoting mental well-being.

“When Active Garden opened in 2022, it was meant to be a community green for all. I am heartened that Starbucks has chosen to focus on mental well-being at Active Garden, complementing Gardens by the Bay’s own initiatives in inclusion and wellness,” added Mr. Felix Loh, CEO of Gardens by the Bay.

Starbucks’ commitment to mental wellness extends beyond its Community Store, as demonstrated through several ongoing initiatives.

Since 2023, all Starbucks managers in Singapore have been required to complete a WSQ-certified mental well-being support course, equipping them to provide peer support and intervention. Starbucks also offers comprehensive mental wellness programs that include medical coverage for psychological and psychiatric care for its employees. Collaborations with the Agency for Integrated Care and The Salvation Army further support Starbucks’ mission to foster kindness and mental well-being across Singapore’s communities, reinforcing its dedication to mental health advocacy and support.

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