One of the questions we get asked quite often is, “What charities do you support?”
The answer is simple: we try to support organisations that are actively making a difference in the lives of people in our community.
As a small independent café, we may not have the budget of a large corporation, but we believe that even small businesses can make a meaningful impact when they use their space, time, skills, and platform to help others.
Here are some of the organisations we’re proud to support and the ways we try to help.
MES Shelter Gqeberha
One of the organisations closest to our hearts is MES Shelter.
MES does incredible work helping people move from homelessness towards stability, dignity, and independence. Their focus isn’t simply providing temporary relief. They help people rebuild their lives through support programmes, skills development, work opportunities, and rehabilitation.
How We Help MES
- We help promote MES and their initiatives through our social media platforms.
- We assist with marketing and awareness campaigns to help more people learn about the work they do.
- We support donation drives and encourage community involvement.
- We provide opportunities for collaboration and community events.
- We offer our café space where appropriate to assist with fundraising and awareness activities.
- We help create opportunities to showcase the positive impact MES has on the community.
We believe helping someone get back on their feet creates a ripple effect that benefits the entire city.
MES Thrift Store
Many people don’t realise that every purchase made through the MES Thrift Store helps support the broader work done by MES.
The thrift store gives donated items a second life while generating funds that can be used to support people in need.
How We Help the MES Thrift Store
- We assist with social media marketing and content creation.
- We help raise awareness about thrift store sales and promotions.
- We host and promote pop-up thrift events.
- We encourage customers to donate usable goods.
- We help connect the thrift store with new audiences who may never have discovered it otherwise.
It’s amazing how a donated item sitting unused in your cupboard can become part of someone’s fresh start.
Bet Sheekoom
Bet Sheekoom has been serving vulnerable individuals and families in our community for many years, providing care, support, and practical assistance where it’s needed most.
Their work often happens quietly behind the scenes, but the impact they make is significant.
How We Help Bet Sheekoom
- We help spread awareness about their work and needs.
- We encourage community donations and support. (We also donate 10% of our revenue on Wednesday’s to their cause)
- We use our social media channels to highlight fundraising efforts and community initiatives.
- We act as a collection point for donations when possible.
- We connect members of the public with opportunities to assist.
Many people want to help but simply don’t know where to start. Sometimes all it takes is connecting willing donors with organisations doing good work.
Supporting Local Community Causes
Not every community need belongs to a registered charity.
Sometimes support means helping a family in crisis, assisting with a local fundraiser, promoting a community initiative, or helping a worthy cause gain visibility.
How We Support the Community
- Providing a space where community groups can meet.
- Promoting local fundraising efforts.
- Helping local organisations reach more people through marketing.
- Creating awareness around important community issues.
- Using our business network to connect people who can help one another.
- Supporting events that bring people together.
More Than Just Coffee
When David and Nicole took over My Hometown Café, they wanted the café to be more than just somewhere to grab breakfast or enjoy a cappuccino.
They wanted it to be a place that actively contributes to the community around it.
Whether that’s helping a local charity gain visibility, encouraging donations, supporting community events, promoting local businesses, or simply offering a welcoming space for people to connect, every little bit helps.
If you’d like to support MES Shelter, MES Thrift Store, Bet Sheekoom, or another local cause, feel free to chat to our team. We are always happy to point you in the right direction and, where possible, accept donations at the café for collection and delivery.
Because at My Hometown Café, community isn’t just something we talk about.
It’s something we’re proud to be part of every day.
My Hometown Café
📍 18 Newton Street, Newton Park, Gqeberha
☕ Where great coffee and community come together. ❤️