Introduction to the Brand
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (National Council of Singapore) (UEN: S61SS0149B) seems likely to be a vital force in Singapore’s charitable landscape, dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized since its registration in 1961. Operating across 29 Catholic parishes with over 750 members (known as Vincentians) and 300 auxiliary volunteers, SSVP Singapore provides direct, non-judgmental assistance to over 3,800 Friends in Need (FINs) annually, regardless of race, nationality, or religion. Their mission, as outlined on their website, is to bring hope and dignity through services like financial aid, befriending, and employment support. The SSVP Shop, launched in September 2019, is a social enterprise that furthers this mission by offering affordable pre-loved and new items, with all proceeds funding SSVP’s charitable programs.
Summary of Products and Services
The SSVP Shop, located at 501 Geylang Road, Singapore 389459, is a charity thrift shop that has gained a reputation as a shopper’s paradise since its inception. Housed in SSVP House, blessed by Fr Eugene Vaz and inaugurated by Minister Desmond Lee on September 21, 2019, the shop offers a diverse range of products:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Apparel | Men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing for all occasions, including casual, formal, and seasonal wear. |
| Accessories | Bags, jewellery, scarves, belts, watches, and small leather goods, both pre-loved and new. |
| Homeware | Decorative pieces, kitchen essentials, small furniture, and sporting equipment. |
| Toys & Games | Fun items for kids and collectors, including puzzles, toys, and collectibles. |
Items are sourced from collection drives at Catholic churches and public donations, accepted by appointment. The shop operates Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and accepts payments via cash and PayNow. Managed by volunteers and a full-time staff supervisor under a Shop Committee, the shop ensures a welcoming experience, with all net proceeds supporting SSVP’s programs for over 3,000 low-income and disadvantaged beneficiaries.
Unique Value Propositions and Benefits
The SSVP Shop’s core strength lies in its dual focus on sustainability and charity. Every purchase directly funds SSVP’s initiatives, such as the Community Services Office (CSO) and Milk and Diapers Programme (MaD), which provide specialized support to FINs. The shop’s commitment to reusing and recycling goods aligns with Singapore’s environmental goals, offering an eco-friendly alternative to fast fashion and disposable consumer culture. Its accessibility, both through the physical store and online platforms like Carousell, makes it convenient for shoppers across Singapore. The shop’s community-driven approach, supported by dedicated volunteers, creates a warm, inclusive shopping environment that resonates with Singapore’s values of compassion and sustainability.
Standout Features and Customer Reviews
The SSVP Shop’s standout feature is its role as a social enterprise, transforming donated goods into resources for the underprivileged. Its inauguration by a government minister and blessing by a Catholic priest highlight its significance within both community and religious contexts. Customers consistently praise the shop’s offerings and atmosphere. A review on the SSVP Shop website states, “I love shopping here, it’s my favourite thrift store! It’s always clean, well maintained, the staff is nice and helpful, and there is a huge variety of clothes and other stuff!” On TripAdvisor, a reviewer called it “My regular thrift shop to visit!” noting its branded items and vintage finds, while another described it as a “charity thrift shop with interesting finds.” These reviews underscore the shop’s appeal as a clean, well-stocked, and community-focused retail space.
Areas of Singapore Served
The SSVP Shop is physically located at 501 Geylang Road, Singapore 389459, a convenient 5-minute walk from Aljunied MRT Station, making it accessible to residents in the Geylang area and beyond. Its online presence through Carousell and social media extends its reach to shoppers across Singapore. Regular updates on new stock and promotions via social media ensure that customers from all corners of the island can engage with the shop, whether by visiting in person or shopping online.
How SSVP Shop Meets Singapore’s Needs
Singapore’s culture emphasizes sustainability, affordability, and community support, and the SSVP Shop addresses these priorities seamlessly. By offering quality pre-loved and new items at budget-friendly prices, it caters to cost-conscious shoppers while promoting sustainable consumption through reuse and recycling. The shop’s proceeds fund SSVP’s programs, such as financial aid and befriending services, which support low-income families, the elderly, and other vulnerable groups, aligning with Singapore’s commitment to social inclusion. Its alignment with initiatives like the Singapore Green Plan 2030, which promotes sustainable living, makes it a valuable contributor to the city’s environmental and social goals.
Contact Information and Social Media
- Address: 501 Geylang Road, Singapore 389459 (between Lorong 27 and 27A, 5-minute walk from Aljunied MRT)
- Operating Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM (closed Mondays and public holidays)
- Phone: +65 6974 2480
- Email: [email protected]
- Social Media:
Summary
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (National Council of Singapore) (UEN: S61SS0149B) has created a remarkable social enterprise with the SSVP Shop, blending affordable retail with a heartfelt mission. Since 2019, this charity thrift shop has offered a diverse range of pre-loved and new items, from clothing to homeware, while channeling all proceeds to support over 3,800 Friends in Need. Its commitment to sustainability, community, and quality makes it a standout choice for Singaporeans looking to shop with purpose and make a difference.
Disclaimer: All information provided here has been compiled from publicly available sources. While we have made every effort to ensure accuracy, we do not guarantee that the information is complete or error-free. We disclaim any liability for inaccuracies or omissions. If you find any errors or have concerns about the content, please let us know so we can address them promptly.