Manna Café Turns Waiting into an Opportunity for Connection
The Salvation Army in Simcoe, Ont., hosts a welcoming space where neighbours can enjoy a cup of coffee, socialize and learn more about the organization’s work. It is called the Manna Café.
The idea for this initiative grew from seeing food bank clients silently waiting for their appointments to begin.
“Manna Café really highlights for them that they’re not alone in their struggle.”
“We used to have chairs lined up in a hallway. People sat there to wait for their turn to go into the food bank, but it felt very institutional,” Lieutenant Josh Edwards, leader at The Salvation Army in Simcoe, explains.
Staff members began serving coffee to guests and eventually moved the waiting area to a space with tables to encourage conversation among clients.
As this simple initiative became more popular, some regulars of the food bank began attending the Manna Café even when they didn’t have an appointment, simply for the chance to spend time with others.
“All of us at the café began having more whole conversations rather than quick small talk,” Lieutenant Josh adds.
The Manna Café’s success led to a foyer renovation. This new model has been in place since May and includes a coffee bar with running water, a fridge and additional tables.
It now also welcomes anyone in the community, not just food bank clients.
Visitors can drop in without an appointment and enjoy coffee, treats and conversation as well as receive emotional and spiritual care. The café is open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 1:30 to 4 p.m.
“Lately we have welcomed more members of the community who are experiencing homelessness.”
Lieutenant Josh is happy to see the evolution of the program. He recognizes that many people, especially those dealing with personal hardships, can feel isolated, so having this space available is important.
“Manna Café really highlights for them that they’re not alone in their struggle,” he adds. “Lately we have welcomed more members of the community who are experiencing homelessness.”
While the social aspect is the main focus, getting to know neighbours better also allows staff to learn more about those they serve and provide them with information about other programs and resources that could benefit them.
Staff are also looking into ways to grow the space even more.
“We’re in talks right now with local Public Health about the possibility of running a vaccine clinic at the Manna Café. So it’s really evolving, which is cool to see,” Lieutenant Josh says.
The café also provides free bread to those who need it. This assistance is made possible by partnerships with local grocery stores that donate it to The Salvation Army.
In addition, the space can serve as a place for people to cool down in the summer or escape the cold in the winter.
Overall, what started as a simple spot to enjoy a coffee and chat has developed into a place where visitors can connect while accessing additional supports.
Looking ahead, Lieutenant Josh hopes to expand Manna Café’s hours so it can open in the morning, which would allow staff to potentially introduce more programs and services.
By Juan Romero
