The Salvation Army in Windsor, Ont., has launched a new outreach opportunity—a cozy spot that introduces The Salvation Army’s services to members of the community and the church—called the Grace Café.

“We named it to pay homage to the old Grace Hospital in Windsor. It isthe first phase of our outreach in the community,” says Captain Nyree Bond, community ministries officer at South Windsor Citadel. “You may come here for the café, but you might stay for something else.”

The café offers free hot beverages, such as coffee, tea and hot chocolate, to anyone. The idea is to create a welcoming and safe environment for people to connect with The Salvation Army. For those already familiar with the Army’s services, this initiative allows them to socialize and build relationships.

“Our Grace Café will overlap with different programs we offer, such as Bible studies and fellowship groups. So, when people come in for those, they can also stop at the café, pick up a drink and chat with people,” Captain Bond shares.

This new addition to the church will also serve as a launch pad for many café-based programs. Recently, a New Moms Café program began, as well as a Play Café for parents with young children. They also launched a new seniors Sit & Fit Café, a chair fitness program where members stay after exercise to enjoy a coffee and conversation at the café. New programs yet to come include the Conversation Café to allow newcomers to Canada to practise English, as well as the Study Café for students to have a place to hang out and do homework.

Grace Café could become a starting point for getting the assistance they need that would allow them to restore dignity and improve their life.

The Grace Café opened in early February, and Captain Bond has noticed it has encouraged people coming into The Salvation Army to stay longer.

“We do have a high senior population in our congregation, and when they make the effort to come out to something, they usually are not ready to go home quickly. They want to stay and socialize. This gives them the space to talk to one another and have fellowship,” Captain Bond says. “I think it is already creating that safe space that we wanted, and people feel welcome here.”

Guests who have seen the café have complimented the space for its comfortable appearance. Some local businesses have supported Grace Café by supplying baked goods to add to their menu. The staff are also taking note of requests to ensure the café has everything in demand.

For many, the Grace Café could become a starting point for getting the assistance they need that would allow them to restore dignity and improve their life.

“We are happy to serve, sit and chat over a coffee, and journey together as we build community and share the love of God,” Captain Bond says.

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