New partnership brews hope in Geelong

A SIMPLE cup of coffee is becoming a lifeline for some of Geelong’s most vulnerable community members, thanks to a new partnership between Restoration Coffee and Lazarus Community Centre.

The collaboration, spearheaded by Michael, the newly appointed Lazarus centre manager, and Sharon De Been, owner of Restoration Coffee, is making a big impact through a “Pay It Forward” coffee initiative.

For Sharon, who endured a challenging 21-year journey through domestic violence, the desire to give back and ensure no one feels alone is personal.

Her coffee shop, located at 164 Bellarine Street, Geelong, offers a unique way for customers to contribute by purchasing coffee vouchers for those in need.

These vouchers are then donated to community members facing homelessness, isolation, mental health struggles, or addiction challenges.

The initiative not only gives individuals a warm drink but also extends a hand of kindness and hope to those who may otherwise feel forgotten.

“Problems become opportunities when the right people join together,” Michael said.

“Be the bridge for hope.”

For Lazarus Community Centre, based in the Geelong Gaol on 202 Myers Street, the partnership signifies a meaningful step toward extending their essential services.

This year alone, Lazarus has supported more than 11,000 people in the local Geelong area, offering daily lunches, hot showers, laundry services, and referrals to outreach services such as Neami and Salvos Connect.

With a team of more than 60 volunteers and five dedicated staff members, Lazarus provides a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, social isolation and addiction challenges.
Through Sharon’s Pay It Forward program at Coffee Restoration, the partnership is creating new opportunities for vulnerable people in need to receive not only a cup of coffee but also a sense of community, compassion and sense of belonging.

The initiative aligns with Lazarus’s values to restore inclusion, compassion, dignity, community and diversity.

It is a reminder that even small acts of kindness can lead to big changes.

Michael and Sharon both invited the community to get involved.

“Being part of the solution means supporting each other as neighbours,” Sharon said.

“No one should feel isolated or left behind.”

Community members looking to support Lazarus and Restoration Coffee’s “Pay It Forward” program can stop in for a Coffee with Sharon, or donate money, food, or clothing directly to Lazarus Community Centre.

People can also join the “100 for 100” Campaign, where individuals or businesses pledge $100 a month to help cover essential operating costs for the Lazarus Community Centre.

For more information, head to lazaruscommunitycentre.com.au