Since at least 1997, Coffeehouse Northwest has been opening on Thanksgiving day, giving away all coffee drinks, and donating all tips to charity. I’m thrilled to hear they will be continuing this tradition in 2010!
From 8am to 12pm, they will be giving away hot drinks. This year’s charities are “Nothing But Nets” which purchase malaria nets for Rwanda, and “Reach Ministries”, and AIDS foundation where Charlotte, one of their baristas, works. Then, for those who need some Thanksgiving evening entertainment, Coffeehouse Northwest will be holding a potluck from 7pm to midnight. All are welcome. Adam suggests participants in the potluck bring “booze or veggies”.
They are indeed, a classy act.
Cuisine Bonne Femme wrote a post about their 2007 Thanksgiving -
Dear Coffeehouse Northwest,
Words can not express my thanks to you today. Many local businesses give so much to their customers and to their communities throughout the year, and to charities during the holiday season. Yet today, you went way above and beyond the call of duty, and I want you to know that your generosity has not gone unnoticed.
I personally have so many things to be thankful for, including terrific friends, no worries for heat, health or good food, and a family that may not be perfect but loves each other fiercely. Those are the important things in life and I don’t take them for granted.
Today, many of us reflect on our blessings and on our losses. Like you, I find it is important to remember the less fortunate among us; the injured, the sad, the struggling, and the ones who may not have the things I have been so lucky to have in my life.
As someone who lives quite far from her family, I know how the holidays can sometimes be lonely. Despite a strong group of friends, I too have been stuck on the holidays, feeling a bit like an orphan.
So thank you. Thank you for being open today and for providing a cozy and friendly space for a cup of coffee and a pastry. Thank you for serving up everything (yes readers, they gave away everything) for free today, and instead using the tips you received towards charity. And thank you for opening back up this evening and throwing a free dinner and party for anyone who may have spent the holidays alone instead.
Yours in Spirit and Goodwill,
Cuisine Bonne Femme and the Crew at Portland Food and Drink
This is fresh on the heels of owner Adam McGovern winning the Coffee Fest Latte Art Competition late last month, while representing his new venture, Sterling Coffee Roasters.
