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Coffee Morning raises money for Matthew’s House

Event in Abbotsford runs from April 29 to May 3
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Jess Hoang, in the green apron, is the manager of the Starbucks at Mt. Lehman in Abbotsford. She recently shared a coffee with (from left) Alan Cavin, Evita Mora Perea, Rebecca Wassef and Caleb Wee– all staff at Communitas. (Photo by Angelika Dawson)

The sixth annual Coffee Morning takes place this April 29 to May 3, raising funds for Matthew’s House for youth with complex care needs.

Over the years, the event has raised more than $50,000, and Alan Cavin, director of resource development for Matthew’s House, hopes they’ll be able to meet their $20,000 goal this year.

“People have discovered how easy and how fun it is to host a Coffee Morning,” he said. “It’s such an easy way to make a difference to families.”

Coffee Morning involves choosing a day during the week of April 29 to May 3 and inviting people to join you for coffee and goodies and letting them know that it’s fundraiser for Matthew’s House.

The event can be hosted by businesses, offices, school groups or individual hosts.

Cavin and his team provide participants with a Coffee Morning kit with everything they need.

Guests can make donations by cash or cheque at the Coffee Morning or make their donation online at mattshouse.ca/coffeemorning.

Cavin is also grateful for the continued partnership with Starbucks. The company offers free coffee to hosts who sign up before April 1.

Jess Hoang, the manager of the Starbucks at Mt. Lehman in Abbotsford, has been with the company for over eight years and has participated in Coffee Morning since its inception.

“This time of year is my favourite because I get to work alongside some of the most inspiring people like Alan and the amazing team at Matthew’s House,” she said.

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Matthew’s House provides care for youth ages 16 to 24 who live with complex care needs.

The home is funded through a partnership between government and private donors, and a portion of this support comes from donors and events like Coffee Morning.

Mindy McCracken’s son Austin lives at Matthew’s House and she says that he has been thriving since he came to stay here.

She saw improvements within weeks and she credits the staff for his success.

“The staff at Matthew’s House are absolutely amazing,” she said. “Each one of them is just incredible. They are so dedicated and committed to Austin’s improvement.”

McCracken has hosted a Coffee Morning at Thomas Swift Elementary for several years, working with PAC (parent advisory council) volunteers to make each event successful.

Her family members also contribute, and last year they raised $2,400. Austin visits the event, which McCracken feels is important.

“Having Austin come out and participate in the Coffee Morning helps the children see who benefits from this fundraiser,” she said.

Visit mattshouse.ca/coffeemorning for more information on how to get involved.