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'I love to give back': Downtown café holds Caring Lunch for less fortunate

Free food, clothing, toiletries and haircuts at Kuppajo Wednesday

The city's less fortunate population were able to access free food, clothing, toiletries and haircuts at downtown Sudbury café Kuppajo Espresso Bar Wednesday during its first Caring Lunch of the new year.

Three years ago, Kuppajo owner Betty-Anne Serré introduced the Caring Lunch as an opportunity for Sudbury's less fortunate to access free services while enjoying a social afternoon on the restaurant's premium patio space. 

The café hosts the event twice a year, once at the beginning of the summer and another in the fall. 

"There's so many people out there that are in need, and I love to give back to the community," said Serré.

Black Sheep, a company that sells homemade crocheted items in support of the homeless, Damien's Way, a group that collects useful items for the homeless, and professional hairstylist Terie Senecal took part in the event.

There was also a special presentation by Réseau Access Network, where people could pick up a free Naloxone kit. 

As someone who interacts with the homeless on a daily basis, Serré said she often finds herself directing people to city services. By inviting the Reseau Access Network, Serré said she hoped her patrons would feel comfortable enough to introduce themselves to the recovery team.

"My father was a very generous man," said Serré. “He taught me that people need help, and there's no reason not to help them if you can - it was just the way we were brought up."

Those interested in donating to Kuppajo Espresso Bar's Caring Lunch or their suspended coffee program, can do so by visiting their location at 109 Larch St. 


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Keira Ferguson, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

About the Author: Keira Ferguson, Local Journalism Initiative reporter

A graduate of both Laurentian University and Cambrian College, Keira Ferguson is a Local Journalism Initiative reporter, funded by the Government of Canada, at Sudbury.com.
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