Coffeehouse Ministry

In 1967, a small coffeehouse called "The Dégagé" was created. Here, college students came to listen to music, talk, have a cup of coffee, and to come as they are, to be accepted and loved as Christ would love them. Today our ministry no longer looks like the quiet college coffeehouse of the '60's, still much remains the same.

Today, every person who walks into Dégagé is treated with dignity and respect because they are created in the image of a loving God who has called them to a plan and purpose in life.

In this way, the Coffeehouse provides a "living room" of a neighborhood, a place to call home. It also fosters a sense of community between those among us who would otherwise feel completely alienated, alone, and on the edge of society. And it creates safety. Neighborhood watch programs work because neighbors know each other and watch out for each other. Our neighborhood has achieved high safety ratings in recent years, as neighbors take hold of this community and call it theirs.

Food Service

• Low-cost breakfast/lunch/dinner programs provide an opportunity for folks to be dignified consumers rather than charity cases. Food is made to order by volunteers, and delivered by name to the table.
• Serves an average of 300 cups of coffee each day.
• Provides approximately 14,000 free meals per year.

Blankets

• Distributed hundreds of blankets to folks who slept outdoors or without heat this winter.

Work Opportunities

Dégagé Dollars program offers a dignified alternative for those who wish to purchase Dégagé services.

• Opportunities to work are provided three times daily, and there is always a waiting list for workers.
• Jobs take approximately 15-40 minutes and can be done by people of any skill level.
• Program encourages the community members to take pride and ownership in the maintenance of our facility while fostering dignity.
• Workers are paid with Degage Dollars, good for any for-fee services at Degage.

Coffee House serves hundreds each day as they come in to warm-up, have a cup of coffee or a meal, request assistance or advice... or simply to find a friendly smile.