WELCOME TO ESSENTIALS CAFE
A pay-what-you-can community café
Our Mission
To create a place of equality where everyone, with different gifts, abilities, and resources, has the opportunity to eat, find welcome, and contribute as volunteers.
We strive to alleviate food insecurity in the Lehigh Valley and to provide a place where friendships and understanding can flourish across all socio-economic groups.
Patrons at the Café donate what they can to eat food together in a warm and hospitable environment. Volunteers work together to grow, cook, and serve food in warm and welcoming ways.
Our Impact in Numbers
1100
Average number of meals served monthly.
36%
Paid meals plus a donation to offset a free meal
10%
Pay-it-forward with a donated prepaid meal
54%
Free meals for someone in need
How Does It Work?
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We operate on Donations and GoodwillList Item 1
We have no set pricing. You will be given the suggested price of your meal. You donate what you can. If you can pay more then you're helping to offset someone else's meal.
Our volunteers will take your order at our counter then serve you at your table.
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Pay-it-Forward
Our Wooden Nickel program offers an opportunity to provide a meal for someone else.
Stop by the cafe and pick up wooden nickels for a suggested price of $12.00 each. Each wooden nickel can be redeemed for a nourishing meal.
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We offer fresh homemade mealsList Item 2
fresh
no frozen food
etc...
To Go Fundraiser was a huge success! Thank You!
Our first fundraiser of the year was a to go dinner for two or four people. Thank you for making the fundraiser a huge success. We sold over 80 dinners!
Greek Spanakopita Class
RegisterLearn how to make Authentic Greek Spanakopita with Evelyn!
Where: Essentials Cafe on Third St, Bethlehem
When: Sunday February 23rd at 2:00 PM
Cost: $15 Cash Donation at the door.
Limited Spots Available.
Experience Cozy Ambiance and Delectable Delights at the Cafe.
Step inside and indulge in a delightful breakfast or lunch experience with us. Settle down and take a seat at our inviting community table, where you can savor both delicious food and engaging conversations. Short on time? No worries, simply seize the opportunity to grab a delectable meal on the go.
