As Homelessness Week 2024 approaches, The Coffee Club proudly announces its third partnership with StreetSmart and its fundraiser CafeSmart, a nationwide initiative uniting the Australian coffee community in the fight against homelessness.
For thirteen years, CafeSmart has brought together cafes and roasters across the country to raise vital funds for local grassroots projects addressing homelessness—a cause The Coffee Club has supported for three years, contributing thousands of dollars to the effort.
Scott Meneilly, CEO of The Coffee Club, states, “At The Coffee Club, we believe in the power of community-driven initiatives like CafeSmart. Together with our customers, we are committed to making a positive impact and supporting those facing homelessness.”
The funds raised through the CafeSmart fundraiser will provide essential services such as safe shelter, nutritious meals, medical care, and legal aid to vulnerable individuals and families across Australia.
From 10th – 16th August, The Coffee Club will actively support CafeSmart by raising awareness and collecting donations across all* stores. This initiative supports StreetSmart’s ongoing dedication to strengthening community support for people at risk, or experiencing homelessness across Australia, fostering a sense of solidarity within the community.
On Friday, August 16th, The Coffee Club stores will also donate $1 from every* takeaway coffee sold to the CafeSmart campaign. The funds raised in each participating state will directly benefit local charity partners, ensuring that contributions remain within the community to support local efforts against homelessness.
The Coffee Club venues will be part of the nationwide collective effort, helping support 100+ grassroots homelessness organisations, including:
- ACT: Karinya House for Mothers and Babies provides critical housing support and advocacy for pregnant or parenting women, ensuring safety and positive support networks.
- Northern Territory: Orange Sky Laundry offers mobile laundry and shower services in Darwin, supporting individuals experiencing homelessness with essential amenities and community engagement.
- New South Wales: The Footpath Library, operating in Sydney’s CBD, provides free access to books, reading glasses, and a welcoming space for homeless individuals, promoting literacy and community connection.
- Queensland: 3rd Space, based in Brisbane, is a daytime drop-in centre offering meals, showers, and essential services to those at risk or experiencing homelessness.
- South Australia: Cos We Care supplies free meals, groceries, clothing, and other essentials to homeless individuals in Adelaide and the northern suburbs.
- Tasmania: Hobart Women’s Shelter supports women and children facing Tasmania’s housing crisis by providing safe accommodation and ongoing support services.
- Victoria: The Living Room Youth Projects in Melbourne’s CBD offers holistic support to vulnerable individuals, addressing broader health and well-being needs beyond immediate homelessness.
- WA: The Pantry in Perth’s northern suburbs provides food hampers and essential items to families and individuals in need, filling critical gaps in local support services.
“This year, amidst escalating housing challenges, our collective efforts are more crucial than ever,” says Geoff Hills, CEO of StreetSmart Australia. “CafeSmart is our flagship event, empowering local cafes and their patrons to make a meaningful difference in their communities.”
Each of these organisations will directly benefit from The Coffee Club and other participating cafes’ fundraising efforts, ensuring that all donations remain within local communities to support those most in need.
To participate in CafeSmart and contribute to the fight against homelessness, visit your nearest participating The Coffee Club store from 10th – 16th August 2024. Customers also have the option to self-donate to the cause, and donations of $2 or more are tax-deductible – providing patrons with an opportunity to give back to their communities while enjoying their coffee.
(Note: *Excludes Victoria and Tasmania The Coffee Club stores. While donations will not be solicited at these locations, customers will be encouraged to scan the QR codes on the cups to donate directly to CafeSmart.)