The Empowering Coffee Shop: Sam’s Place Coffee

Step inside Sam’s Place Coffee, a coffee shop with a purpose. This remarkable establishment is not just a place for delicious coffee; it is a force for good in the world. In partnership with the Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba, Sam’s Place Coffee is dedicated to equipping and empowering young individuals in Winnipeg who face barriers to entering the workforce.

Through a transformative program spanning four to eight months, participants at Sam’s Place Coffee learn valuable barista skills through workshops and mentorships. At the program’s conclusion, they are provided with assistance in securing permanent employment either at another local coffee shop or as a full-time member of the Sam’s Place staff. This initiative beautifully demonstrates the profound impact a simple cup of coffee can have on someone’s life.

This inspiring story is part of the 2023 Build-Outs of Coffee, brought to you by DONA. The 2023 Build-Outs of Coffee is proudly sponsored by La Marzocco, Pacific Barista Series, Acaia, and Marco Beverage Systems.

Alison Greenslade shared this remarkable tale with Sprudge.

Introducing our extraordinary company:

At our coffeeshop, we go beyond just serving coffee. We are a Social Enterprise, proudly associated with Mennonite Central Committee Manitoba (MCC Canada). Our mission is to empower and uplift young individuals, helping them overcome barriers and find meaningful employment. Through our comprehensive training program, which spans four to eight months, we create a safe and inclusive community for young people to learn and grow. Our dedicated team of trainers, mentors, and volunteers provide not only hands-on training but also workshops, certificates, and engagement opportunities, ensuring our participants receive a well-rounded education.

Once participants complete our Program, they will have the opportunity to embark on paid work beyond the confines of Sam’s Place. Alternatively, they may choose to continue their journey by becoming a paid staff member at Sam’s Place or explore other enriching opportunities.Let us delve into the captivating details of our new space.Our coffeeshop finds its home within the MCC Manitoba office headquarters, nestled at 100-140 Bannatyne Avenue. Housed within a 105-year-old historic building in Winnipeg’s iconic Exchange District, our space has served as a backdrop for numerous cinematic masterpieces. To discover more about the rich history of our building, please click here.Spanning a portion of the main floor and the patio, our coffeeshop has transformed what was once a vibrant night club. As you step inside, a spacious seating area beckons, bathed in abundant natural sunlight pouring through the expansive north-facing windows. Exposed brick and the enduring charm of post-and-beam construction grace every corner, seamlessly blending timeless beauty with a modern twist. The lofty ceilings create an airy ambiance, while the warm embrace of wooden furnishings and textured paneling adds a touch of comfort and approachability.Our cafe area has been meticulously designed to showcase our program’s essence. Program content adorns the walls, displayed in a captivating gallery-style fashion. Moreover, the space exudes an atmosphere of safety and belonging, creating a haven for all who enter.Let your senses awaken as you step into our extraordinary world.

What’s Your Approach to Coffee?

Discover the third wave of approachable coffee. Our program aims to empower young individuals with invaluable skills that would otherwise be inaccessible. We believe in breaking down barriers, as the Third Wave Coffee industry has long been associated with exclusivity and lack of diversity. Through our intentional hands-on training and barista certifications, we strive to create opportunities for underrepresented individuals to become professional baristas.

Partnering with Rosso Roasters, we proudly serve some of the finest sustainable coffee in Canada. Our curriculum is built in collaboration with Rosso, who shares our commitment to direct Fairtrade practices, eco-friendliness, and social impact. With every cup of intentionally roasted coffee we serve, you can feel good knowing that you’re supporting a greater cause.

Impressive Coffee Equipment

Are you ready to be amazed by our extraordinary coffee setup?

Prepare to be dazzled by our incredible coffee machines and special equipment:

• Bulk Brewer – Curtis Double Brewer D1000Gt ZZNT162
• Espresso Machine – Victoria Arduino VA358 White Eagle (two-group)
• Espresso Grinder – Nuova Simonelli Mythos Clima Pro NDC
• Automatic Tamper – Puq Press Q2 Auto Tamper
• Single Dose/Decaf Grinder – M42D Macap Grinder
• Bulk Grinder – Mahlkönig EK43 Shop Grinder
• Hot Water Dispenser – BUNN 39100.0000 H5E-DV PC
• Pour-Over – TBD

And that’s not all! Feast your eyes on our stunning coffee accessories:

• Cortado/Espresso Cups – Loveramics Tasting Cups (available in Purple and Yellow)
• Latte/Cappuccino Bowls – Coffee Addicts Latte Bowls (in Glossy Pink)
• Coffee Mugs – Maxwell Williams Mug (in Sherbet Lilac)

Still not convinced? Take a look at this mesmerizing image of our coffee haven:

How does your project prioritize sustainability?

Our parent non-profit has taken measures to ensure carbon neutrality during the construction of the space. We have partnered with a tree planting company to offset the carbon emissions generated during the construction process.

We have collaborated with Rosso, a roaster that utilizes one of the only green bean sorting machines in North America. This allows them to purchase less than ideal beans from farmers. Additionally, they follow direct fair trade practices, have give back programs, and use compostable packaging.

Our work, both programmatic and operational, is guided by a Creation Care mandate established by our parent non-profit.

We proudly showcase locally made goods, highlighting the talent of makers and creatives in Manitoba and Canada. This not only supports our local community but also reduces our carbon footprint as we source a significant portion of our inventory locally.

Parts of our project, such as our bar seating counters, have been repurposed from previous setups, minimizing waste and promoting sustainability.

The building incorporates an eco-friendly heating and cooling system that utilizes heat pump technology.

When do you anticipate opening?

We are scheduled for a hard launch after the first weekend of September 2023.

Do you collaborate with skilled craftspeople, visionary architects, and brilliant creatives?

Architecture firm: Robin Lalonde from Number TEN Architectural Group
Branding firm: Tyler Thiessen from One Plus One Designs
Bar Equipment Supplier: Fabio De Luca from DeLuca’s Winnipeg

Thank you!

Thank you!

The extraordinary 2023 Build-Outs of Coffee is proudly presented by DONA. This remarkable event is generously sponsored by La Marzocco, Pacific Barista Series, Acaia, and Marco Beverage Systems.