Community Fundraiser for the Ovaltine Cafe

On the morning of Sunday, May 28th, the historic Ovaltine Cafe was seriously damaged by a fire in the alley behind the building. The rear exterior is badly damaged, parts of the kitchen were affected by the flames, and the front doors are now boarded up, also damaged as a result of the fire. The long list of necessary repairs have rendered the business inoperable for the next 6-8 weeks.

The temporary loss of this institution will be felt most by the residents of the DTES who depend on it, but it will likewise adversely affect the staff. This Go Fund Me campaign is looking to both help Grace, Rachel, Matthew and Jack get through the next couple of months, as well as help speed up repairs and re-open as soon as possible for the community who rely on the Ovaltine.

Within the DTES, the Ovaltine is a fixture of the community for residents. It offers healthy and affordable dining choices, and it's a friendly place to meet. Ovaltine patrons treat the staff with respect, often helping to clean up the front walk. It is an integral hub within the community, frequented by many. One of the last remaining affordable restaurants in a rapidly re-developing neighborhood, it is a home away from home for students, seniors, and families in the area.

The Ovaltine Cafe opened in 1942 in the heart of the Downtown East Side. While many other surrounding family-run businesses have packed up and left the neighborhood, the Ovaltine has demonstrated a commitment to its patrons and an unconditional love for the community.

This cafe is known to and loved by many around the world, having starred in a number of films and TV shows, such as I, Robot, The X-Files, and Da-Vinci's Inquest. In 2018, it received high praise when it was named by The Telegraph as one of the top 50 greatest cafes on Earth (https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/food-and-wine-holidays/best-cafes-in-the-world/)

The fundraising goal is set at $20,000. Please consider donating to help expedite repairs, cover the costs of utilities while they are forced to close their doors, and help the employees impacted by this unexpected event. Please help this iconic landmark stay on its feet during these incredibly difficult times! Every little bit helps <3

Thank you so much for reading this. The Ovaltine Cafe holds a very, if not *the most* special place in my heart. I no longer work there, but maybe you were one of the thousands of people served when I did .The team and the regulars are rare gems and they deserve our support. That is why I am calling on all of you to consider donating to this crowdfunding initiative. This family-owned and operated business could really use your help right now!