A small community garden in Yishun has been transformed into a vibrant, Disney-themed space that provides both aesthetic enjoyment and social benefits for local residents, particularly seniors. Located along Yishun Street 22, the garden features colorful figurines of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, Winnie the Pooh bears gathered around a pastel birthday cake, and white pebbles shaped as Mickey Mouse silhouettes lining the winding pathways. Additional features include a rainbow arch, polka-dotted toadstools, a miniature pond inhabited by guppies and goldfish, as well as handcrafted replicas of iconic Singapore landmarks made from recycled materials.

The garden has been tended for about four years by a dedicated group of five senior volunteers from the Garden Club at St Luke’s ElderCare Active Ageing Centre (Care) @ Nee Soon East. The group repurposes discarded objects to create decorations intended to uplift fellow seniors and other residents in the area. Leading the group is Jasmine Tan, 68, a retired florist who emphasizes the garden’s calming effect on elderly visitors. “When the elderly from the day care centre feel down, the staff will wheel them out just to look at the garden,” Tan said.

Supporting Tan’s efforts daily is Christina Koh, 65, a part-time cleaner skilled in carpentry and handicrafts. Koh noted that the garden encourages older residents to leave their homes and fosters a sense of community and mutual care. The volunteers source many of their decorative materials from neighborhood donations, particularly during festive seasons when residents declutter their homes.

However, the garden occasionally faces challenges, including the presence of discarded household items like old washing machines and luggage being left overnight, which volunteers either recycle or donate to local flea markets. Additionally, some plants, flowers, and edible produce have gone missing, and the fish pond was once contaminated by thrown-in food. Despite these setbacks, volunteers remain committed. Koh often reminds children visiting the garden to admire the displays without touching.

Volunteer Irene Oh, 70, a retired accountant who joined the group in 2023, values the garden for the camaraderie it fosters among participants. Other volunteers, such as retired caterer Clifford Leung, 70, document the garden’s evolution through photos and videos shared within the group. Leung appreciates the social engagement the garden provides, noting that local residents and children often greet him during his visits.

Community members widely appreciate the garden’s role in bringing neighbors together. Homemaker Eileen Ang, 66, travels by bus to assist in maintaining the space and has taken a floral arrangement course to enhance her contributions. Ang described the garden as a place that facilitates community bonding, with residents exchanging food and festive invitations. Other locals such as homemaker Ang Ah Kim and retired tutor Koh Beng Hwa also expressed admiration for the garden’s creativity and the positive impact it has on the neighborhood.

The volunteers hope their initiative will inspire other neighborhoods to establish similar gardens, possibly even organizing friendly competitions to enrich communal spirit and encourage active, outdoor lifestyles among seniors.