Fund for Mary's Place Cafe II Family - Medical Expenses

Wayne and Kelly have owned the Halifax institution, Mary's Place Cafe II, since 2013. They have been a second set of parents to me as long as I can remember, and I can say with certainty that they're some of the best people the city of Halifax has to offer.

Anyone lucky enough to dine at Mary's over the years would know that they ran a family business in more ways than one: working alongside each other and each of their four children, and welcoming each customer with the warmth of a favourite aunt and uncle. They rarely had to advertise for new employees---whenever there was an opening, the friends of their staff wanted in. Wayne and Kelly worked to prioritize inclusivity and community above all, befriending and accommodating every person who walked through their doors. Their restaurant was a comforting, cozy and safe space for all to enjoy. Whether you wanted the tastiest garlic home fries, some motherly advice, or just a quippy comment to cheer you on a grey day, you could find it at Mary's.

Tragically, Mary's was forced to close indefinitely on May 15. In December of 2023, Wayne was diagnosed with advanced cancer, but he is a fighter and he continued to sling some of the best breakfast in Halifax through his treatment. However, in early May, he suffered a stroke which left him mostly non-verbal and physically unable to work. He has been hospitalized since then, but he is nearly stable enough to move home where he will require full-time care from Kelly. Wayne is strong-willed and continues to fight hard.

Neither Wayne nor Kelly have income outside of the restaurant. In addition to their complete loss of income, they face significant medical expenses to equip and retrofit their home for Wayne's care and comfort. It is unlikely that they will be able to reopen the restaurant, and Wayne will require full-time care for the foreseeable future. There is unfortunately little chance of selling the restaurant to new owners as its location is slated for imminent development. The financial burden on the family will be enormous.

For over a decade, Wayne and Kelly have made Halifax a better place by looking out for university students who were new to the city, feeding and consoling those who were visiting loved ones in hospital and Ronald McDonald House, and creating a familiar home-away-from-home for tourists and Haligonians alike. They have demonstrated their kindness and generosity in big ways and small, like Wayne always sending out the kids' Mickey-ear pancakes first without being asked, so parents could enjoy their own meals a little bit more. After years of serving their community, the Mary's Family need to lean on us.

Please help me in organizing financial support for two of the most special and giving people around. No contribution is too small. Thank you ♡