Starbucks Philippines expanded its social impact efforts with the opening of its second Community Store in Maysilo Circle, Mandaluyong. The opening of the new store was attended by Starbucks Philippines executives, beneficiaries from the chosen local community, and the press on August 5, 2024.
The new store joins a global network of over 200 Starbucks Community Stores designed to empower local communities. Led by employees passionate about youth education, the store aims to create economic opportunities for underserved communities through educational programs.
Following the success of their first Community Store in Tondo, Starbucks partnered with Mano Amiga Philippines, an organization dedicated to enhancing education for underprivileged children. A portion of the store's proceeds will directly support Mano Amiga's scholarship programs.
The interior architecture of the new store is clean and decidedly modern, with touches of dark wood accents. A mural depicting books highlights the store's focus on reading. The Maysilo Circle store features Starbucks' first Community Library, offering a diverse collection of books by Filipino and international authors. This initiative aims to inspire a love for reading and lifelong learning through early exposure to literature.
"We really thought about how we could contribute to the community by increasing awareness that literacy is very important, and fostering a love for reading should start at an early age. That's how this concept came about. We're featuring books primarily written by Filipino authors and illustrated by Filipino artists," shared Jamie Silva, Senior Manager, Marketing, Starbucks Philippines, when chatting with the Manila Bulletin.
"There are also some international books, but the majority of the collection is by Filipino creators. So, people can come here, take a book, borrow it, read it while they're in the store, and then return it when they're done."
Raising readers and raising leaders
It was also announced at the event that in October they will be launching the "Raising Readers" and "Raising Leaders" initiatives, which will benefit underprivileged youth in Mandaluyong's Welfareville community. Raising Readers promotes literacy through storytelling, arts, and nutrition, while Raising Leaders offers leadership training, life skills workshops, and scholarship support.
"We are thrilled to work with Mano Amiga for our second Community Store, as their mission aligns with our values and commitment to advancing youth education in the communities we serve," said Noey Lopez, president of Starbucks Philippines. "Through this meaningful partnership, we are helping to create a brighter future for the Filipino youth."
The Starbucks Maysilo Circle Community Store is now open from Monday to Sunday, 6:30 a.m to 12 midnight via dine-in and take-out.