Alex Dalland

A new charity initiative means that there is now more to that first cup of coffee in the morning than just a caffeine boost.

This Friday is CafeSmart, a day when homelessness action group StreetSmart will raise money to combat homelessness with the help of participating cafes. Cafes across Australia will donate one dollar from every cup of coffee sold to fund a range of community projects aimed at homeless or at-risk people. It is also possible to donate a coffee online through the StreetSmart website or app to help raise money for the cause.

Rita Modesto, Owner of The Lock Up cafe in Pymble is participating in CafeSmart for the second year in a row. Originally getting involved with the event through their coffee supplier Allpress, they found it a great way to get involved with the North Shore community.

“We try to support as many local events as we can,” Rita says.

“We’re a community business and try to give something back to the community that supports us. Last year we raised over $1,000 towards homelessness projects in the local area. It was well received by customers, I don’t think we sold any extra coffees that day though!”

CafeSmart takes place on August 5 at participating cafes, including The Lock Up in Pymble, De’lish in Lindfield and The Tricycle Cafe in Willoughby. 100% of money raised goes to community projects funded by StreetSmart, for more information on the event visit street smart australia