With World Kindness Day on 13 November, there’s no better time to shop with heart. As the festive season approaches, why not choose gifts that not only bring joy but also make a positive impact?
From thrift stores that fund community initiatives to boutiques supporting artists with disabilities, these establishments are on a mission to do good — and they let you be a part of it. Each purchase you make gives back, helping create a more inclusive and sustainable future.
If you’re on the lookout for meaningful gifts, here are some inspiring spots where you can double your karma points and spread a little extra kindness this year.
The Art Faculty
At The Art Faculty, your shopping supports individuals on the autism spectrum. This social enterprise, started by the Autism Resource Centre (Singapore), offers a variety of unique gifts and merchandise featuring artwork by artists with autism. Each purchase you make contributes directly to the artists, who earn royalties for their work — a model that fosters financial independence and teaches the value of their creative efforts.
The selection here is both meaningful and versatile, from charming char siew bao ankle socks by Fong Bok Loong ($12) to a sleek thermo mug adorned with shophouses on Sam Leong Road by Marcus Lim ($40). Otherwise, practical options like Seetoh Sheng Jie’s petite shopping bags ($12) make stylish companions for your grocery trips.
The Art Faculty’s flagship store at Enabling Village in Redhill is a welcoming space staffed by an inclusive team trained in various roles. There’s also a second store at Pathlight School in Ang Mo Kio, with another set to open soon at Pathlight School Tampines Campus, complete with an integrated Professor Brawn Cafe.
The flagship store is located a short 9-minute walk from Redhill MRT, or rent a GetGo car from nearby 56 Lengkok Bahru. It’s just $3 per hour with no extra fees. Plus, SAFRA members get $16 off their first drive with the promo code <SAFRAGG16>. For more info, visit safra.sg/promotions/get-go
20 Lengkok Bahru, #01-07, Singapore 159053; theartfaculty.sg
SSVP Shop
For thrifting with a cause, check out SSVP Shop at Geylang, a haven for sustainable shopping. Opened in 2019, it has become a favourite among Singaporeans who love finding unique pieces while supporting a worthy mission. Here, you can browse through a range of pre-loved and brand new clothes, accessories, and even upcycled stuffed animals lovingly created by the team. Many of the items are affordably priced, with pre-loved clothing starting at just $5.
Beyond great finds, shopping here helps make a real difference. All net proceeds go to the Society of St Vincent De Paul (National Council of Singapore), supporting their programmes for over 3,000 low-income individuals and families, regardless of background. Keep an eye out for special items like vintage Ferragamo and Mulberry bags, sometimes available for bids starting around $150!
501 Geylang Road, Singapore 389459; ssvpsingapore.org/ssvp-shop
Books Beyond Borders
A bookstore with a mission, Books Beyond Borders is nestled in a cosy shophouse in Maxwell, offering a selection of pre-loved and vintage books, all surrounded by warm rugs and photos from Nepal — a perfect escape for book lovers. More than just a bookstore, Books Beyond Borders is committed to making a difference. Since 2018, 5% of every purchase has been channelled into scholarships for girls in Nepal, helping bridge the gap between secondary and higher education for those in need.
You’ll find not only books but also unique gifts like handmade felt items and literary-themed totes, perfect for thoughtful presents. And if you’re clearing out your shelves, you can donate your pre-loved books here too, turning your spring cleaning into an opportunity to support education in Nepal. It’s a feel-good place to shop and give back. For more info on how to donate books, refer to the guidelines on the Books Beyond Borders website.
33 Erskine Road, 01-08, Singapore 069333; booksbeyondborders.org
Read our interview with the founder Randall Chong, and how he was inspired to set up Books Beyond Borders.
The Social Space
For a spot that blends style with purpose, check out The Social Space — a unique cafe, nail salon, and gift shop all in one. This multi-concept social enterprise is all about promoting low-waste and conscious living while fostering inclusive employment. With locations in Kreta Ayer, Duo Galleria, and Potong Pasir, it’s a go-to for intentional shopping, a cosy brunch, or treating your special person to a relaxing nail appointment.
The Social Space partners with over 10 social service agencies and provides vocational training and employment to more than 50 individuals, including single mothers, youths-at-risk, ex-offenders, and people with special needs or mental health conditions. Each purchase here directly supports these efforts, making it a feel-good way to spend your day out.
33 Kreta Ayer Rd, #01-14, Singapore 080333; thesocialspace.co
The Green Collective SG
With climate change accelerating faster than ever, we must make a difference, especially with our lifestyle choices. The Green Collective SG offers a way to make mindful, eco-friendly shopping decisions while supporting local brands. This green haven stocks a variety of products aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
You’ll also find eco-conscious brands like Endota, which focuses on everyday well-being with products that prioritise health and happiness. Iryasa combines science with natural ingredients to create sustainable beauty and wellness products, while My Naked Bar offers bar soaps free from synthetics and unnecessary packaging, ideal for a more eco-friendly daily routine. And if you’re on the lookout for safe household products, Ollie provides non-toxic, plant-based cleaners that are pet- and kid-friendly, with packaging made from recycled plastic.
For those with kids, brands like Purple & Pure and Nimbu offer playful, educational products like plantable pens, pencils, and notebooks – perfect for teaching little ones about growing plants from their stationery.
SAFRA members can take advantage of extra perks: simply download the CapitaStar App to earn STAR$® on purchases using eCapitaVouchers. Redeem NS LifeSG credits on the app for a 2% cashback in STAR$, making eco-conscious shopping a rewarding experience for both you and the planet. For more information, visit safra.sg/promotions/capitastar-nslifesg
02-18, Funan Mall, 107 North Bridge Rd, Singapore 179105; thegreencollective.sg
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