Sam Elliott, 50, has opened a community cafe called The Caff in Stockton-on-Tees following the loss of her best friend in 2015. Her friend died from a heart attack linked to crack cocaine use, prompting Ms. Elliott to give up drugs and commit to helping others in need. As she stated, she has been drug-free for ten years and has focused on assisting those facing similar struggles.
The Caff aims to serve as a supportive environment for individuals dealing with issues such as loneliness, addiction, and the cost-of-living crisis. Ms. Elliott explained that the cafe is inclusive, welcoming anyone who may need an affordable meal or a conversation. She noted that many of the cafe’s patrons are people experiencing addiction, and she emphasizes a non-judgmental approach, stating that they often help those who feel overlooked by the wider community.
In addition to The Caff, Ms. Elliott, alongside her mother Lynne Russell, established another initiative called Helping Hands, which opened in April. This shop sells donated goods and is located in the neighboring unit. The opportunity arose when the landlord offered the space to Ms. Elliott. Russell runs the day-to-day operations at Helping Hands, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining both ventures but expressing pride in her daughter’s accomplishments.
Overall, both establishments aim to provide a safe and warm space for individuals in need, with Ms. Elliott highlighting the importance of offering support to those who may be struggling. The initiative seeks to create a sense of community and understanding in the face of various hardships.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c749ev79jgjo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss