100+
Adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities gaining workplace and personal skills in our Interactive Development Program.
43+
Youth with disabilities stepping forward in our Summer Work Experience Program
81+
of our apprentices have received paid work at Melly's — and counting
27+
(and counting) employment opportunities for our apprentices in the community
8
Employers have collaborated with us to hire one or more of our graduates
$25,000
supporting disability-led businesses, and their products are available to shop in our market.
Donate today and help us build a better café, and a better pathway to work.
Thank you for investing in a workplace where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities can learn, earn, and belong. When you Brew It Forward, you are helping keep Melly’s running strong and opening more doors to employment.
“Keep the Coffee Flowing, Keep Opportunities Growing!
FAQ
What will my donation support?
Your gift helps us purchase and install AODA-accessible, commercial-grade equipment that keeps our café running smoothly and supports paid training shifts. Current priorities include an espresso machine, larger fridges and freezers, an under-counter fridge, a larger ice machine, and a market fridge.
How does equipment connect to your mission?
Melly’s is a café and market open to the public, and it’s also a workplace training site. Apprentices complete paid shifts and learn workplace skills through real tasks like drink prep, packaging, labelling, stocking, and merchandising. Equipment is part of the learning environment that makes those shifts possible.
Why are equipment upgrades so important?
Reliable equipment means safer, more consistent training and better service during busy hours. It also lets apprentices practice on the same types of tools they will encounter in real workplaces, building transferable skills and confidence.
Can I donate in honour of someone or as a gift?
Yes. You can dedicate your donation in honour of someone. If you’d like us to notify them, include their name and email in the notes at checkout (or contact us after you donate).
Is my donation tax receiptable?
Yes. Melly’s is a registered Canadian charity and donations receive a tax receipt.
Can my business sponsor a specific piece of equipment?
Yes. If your company would like to sponsor an item like the espresso machine or market fridge, we’d love to talk. Corporate sponsorships can include recognition options based on your preference.
What happens if you raise more than the equipment goal?
If we exceed the equipment target, funds will be directed to the highest-priority needs that support training shifts and program delivery, so your donation still has immediate impact.
How will I know what my donation accomplished?
We share updates as equipment is purchased and installed, including photos and progress notes. You’ll see the results in the café and in our community updates.
Is this a one-time donation or recurring?
Both options are welcome. One-time gifts help us reach the purchase goal faster, and monthly gifts help us plan upgrades and ongoing maintenance.
Is my payment secure?
Yes. Checkout is processed through Shopify’s secure payment system.