As you step into The Barn, a vibrant array of colours and textures greets you – clothes, shoes, vintage accessories and well-loved books, each with its own story to tell. Located next to the Cornerstone@ChengSan Active Ageing Centre, this thrift shop not only breathes new life into pre-loved items but also embodies the spirit of community welfare.

Run by Cornerstone Community Services, The Barn@AMK opened its doors in 2018 with the aim of providing a space for people to donate items they no longer need, while helping low-income communities access affordable goods.

Ms Eunice Lai, Programme Manager at Cornerstone Community Services, said: “We accept a wide range of items, such as clothes, accessories, home decorations like paintings and small figurines, and toys, as long as they're in good condition.” These items are then sold at affordable prices, with clothes starting as low as $3 and accessories from $1. “We also offer household items at around half or even a quarter of their original price, which helps reduce waste and allows consumers to save money,” she added.

As more people become aware of both environmental sustainability and cost saving, many have turned to thrift shops for festive decorations. She recalled: “There was a resident who bought an antique clock, cushion cover and tissue holder to decorate her home for Hari Raya. She was very happy with the great deals, as they not only made her home look more beautiful but also helped her save money.” 

The thrift shop can sometimes be a treasure trove. “There are people who come here specifically to look for vintage accessories, and some even donate souvenirs they've received from overseas,” she noted. 

The Barn also extends its reach through partnerships with social service agencies and community groups. “We regularly organise Pop Up Barn sessions around the island, specifically for low-income groups,” Eunice shared. At these events, shopping credits or vouchers are provided to enable participants to pick up the items they need.

As a volunteer-run shop, The Barn provides a platform for seniors to give back to the community. Eunice explained: “Seniors come here to help process donations and handle sales transactions. Interacting with customers helps them build their confidence and self-esteem.”

After covering operating costs, the proceeds from The Barn are used to support various programmes at Cornerstone Community Services. “This means that when residents shop or donate, they’re not only contributing to sustainability but also helping to fund welfare programmes that benefit our community,” she added. 

More than just a thrift shop, The Barn is a testament to the power of community spirit and collective responsibility. Whether you’re looking for unique items, wanting to declutter your home, or simply seeking to make a difference, it welcomes everyone to be part of this meaningful journey.

Watch the video to find out more about this meaningful initiative and donate your pre-loved items or sign up as a volunteer today!

The Barn@AMK 
Location: Blk 591A Ang Mo Kio St 51, #01-35, Singapore 561591
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday and Sunday, 1–4pm (closed on Saturday and public holiday)

[Chinese]

位于宏茂桥的The Barn由房角石社区服务中心（Cornerstone Community Services）运营，提供旧衣物捐赠和购买的平台，不仅惠及低收入群体，还倡导可持续的生活方式。

[Malay]

The Barn@AMK yang dikendalikan Cornerstone Community Services, bertujuan menyediakan ruang bagi orang ramai mendermakan barang terpakai sambil membantu masyarakat berpendapatan rendah mendapat akses kepada barangan mampu milik.

[Tamil]

கார்னர்ஸ்டோன் சமூகச் சேவைகள் அமைப்பு நடத்தும் The Barn@AMK, பயன்படுத்தப்பட்ட பொருட்களை மக்கள் தானம் செய்ய இடமளித்து, குறைந்த வருமானத்தினருக்குக் கட்டுப்படியாகும் விலையில் பொருட்கள் கிடைக்க உதவி செய்வதை இலக்காகக் கொண்டுள்ளது.