Despite being hindered by stringent quarantine restrictions last year, 291 cafés from around the country banded together to raise funds for grassroot homeless charities. The donations came online and in cafes, helping raise more than $80,000.
StreetSmart Australia fast-tracked these funds in order to distribute the grants before Christmas. In total, 87 local homeless charities received a community grant. Each grant provides practical and critical aid, supporting people at risk or experiencing homelessness.
Clair Harris, from Tassie Mums said the grant helped provide essential baby and children’s items to social service organisations across Tasmania that work with vulnerable and at-risk children.
“We hear some beautiful feedback from case workers. Young children dancing around in excitement at receiving new socks, or a little girl happy to have a toy to cuddle and call her own. And of course, the relief of parents” she said.
Every dollar helps us get healthcare to those living on the streets doing it tough. We provide healthcare to vulnerable individuals and families experiencing homelessness and poverty across Australia,” Sonia Goodwin from Sunny Street said.
Other recepients of the grant include EDON Place Domestic and Family Violence Centre Inc., Youth Housing Project Association Inc., Chameleon Regional Community Housing Accommodation and Welfare Association Inc., Family Centre Australia Limited, Women’s Justice Network, and more.
CafeSmart is a regular event within the coffee community and wouldn’t be possible without the support of community-minded cafes and roasters coming together to stand up for people experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
“We are continually blown away by the passion and determination our cafes show in raising funds for their region’s homeless charities. It is an opportunity for them to connect with their customers for a good cause. With funds going to support vital, local services such as women’s refuges, medical outreach teams, youth services, meal programs and much more,” said Geoff Hills, Chief Operations & Fundraising, StreetSmart Australia.
StreetSmart said it is grateful for the support of coffee industry leaders who help make the event a success. Vitasoy was the principal sponsor for the second year running, demonstrating its passion for supporting local communities around the country.
Meanwhile, Broadsheet celebrated a milestone as the event’s media partner for 10 years in the running. La Marzocco, Cargo Crew and BeanScene also supported the event.