Coffee Shops with a Cause: Chicago
In 2015, consumers spent $74.2 billion dollars on coffee. Now let’s think about if all that money spent on coffee was done so at a local coffee shop, the impact we could make in our communities.
Not only are you supporting a small and local business when you buy your morning cup of joe, but you are giving back to causes that are so much bigger than ourselves. If you’re looking for ways to give back and support your community, start small. Start with your cup of joe!
Whether you’re a Chicago native or visiting for the weekend, be sure to check them out and know your money is going beyond that first sip.
Located in Wicker Park, it doesn’t get more Grass Roots organizing than Coffee Hip Hop and Mental Health founder and CEO Christopher LeMark. In the words of Disney Pixar Robots, see a need fill a need. The founder Chris, had a vision after beginning his own healing journey to normalize therapy. Through building community with music and coffee, CHHMH donates a portion of proceeds to providing therapy to those in need.
Located in Logan Square, Sip of Hope opened its doors in 2018 and became the world’s first coffee shop to donate 100% of the proceeds to support proactive suicide prevention and mental health education. Each barista is trained in mental health first aid and can help identify the signs of someone in crisis. Although they are not a clinic and not professionals, they hope to serve as a bridge to connect people to the resources they may need.
Located in River North, NoMad is a woman owned experiential destination that sells coffee and baked goods as well as globally sourced artisan products. NoMad also offers private spaces for meetings and events.
Located in Evanston and Highland Park, Curt’s Cafe uses local products and vendors while employing student trainee’s ages 15-24 who are living in at-risk situations like homelessness, food insecurity, or having dropped out of school.
