The Somerset West Night Shelter’s coffee shop was relaunched as Church Street Copper Coffee, following a significant partnership with a local couple who foster babies and children.
The original coffee shop opened as Church Street Coffee Shop on 7 December 2016. By the end of last year Somerset West Night Shelter chairperson Jo Swart was ready for a dynamic collaboration to increase feet, create awareness, a great environment and a place the community would find both refreshing and welcoming.
“We wanted to change the misconception that the coffee shop was in the shelter and visiting patrons could be harassed,” said Swart. “Our coffee shop is in front of the shelter and not in the shelter. We believe being homeless does not represent the being helpless.
The collaboration was formed on Monday 29 January and Church Street Coffee Shop officially became Church Street Copper Coffee, banding with local couple Garth and Angela Burgess. The full management team consists of their daughter Cailynn, a qualified pastry chef and Isolda Adams, the barista who is a resident of the Family Shelter and part of the skills upliftment programme. Garth and Angela are always on site to welcome patrons. The collaboration was birthed by a shared heart for the love of the community and to uplift destitute families. The coffee shop has always been a fundraising initiative, and R9 of every cup of coffee goes to the shelters.
The Burgesses are a foster-care family actively involved in child care and child protection. Working closely with the Department of Social Development they care for six children. They are involved in emergency care, short-term placements and long-term foster care. All parties concerned are excited about the new joint venture and the future, improving lives and enriching the community.
The coffee shop’s operating hours are from 07:30 to 15:00, Monday to Friday, and 09:00 to 12:00 on the first Saturday of every month. “We eagerly invite the community of Somerset West and its surroundings to pop in for the best coffee in the Helderberg,” said Angela, “and to try our tasty light meals, including our delicious signature carrot cake. Church Street Copper Coffee is happy to cater for small to medium-sized gatherings, or you can place your order for collection or local deliveries on whattsapp number 069 115 4797.
“Our relaxed ambience and happy faces will make Church Street Copper Coffee a regular venue for meetings, coffee dates or just a pit stop for your regular cuppa. We look forward to meeting you.”
