New Yarmouth café looking to pay it forward
Café Caye Mangé seeking to help those facing food insecurity
Café Caye Mangé in Yarmouth, known for its plantbased culinary experiences under the visionary leadership of Chef Pamela Leonforde, is proudly unveiling its latest endeavor – the Pay It Forward Program.
Café Caye Mangé officially opened its doors at the start of January and Leonforde, the owner, is thrilled with the community's support.
“I am trying to raise awareness on why we should use healthier food options, not only for us, but generations to come,” Leonforde says.
The café is located at 291 Main St. in the building that for countless decades was known as the local business Toots.
“My location at Toots, which really symbolized the community, is just perfect. I am so blessed and humbled to be able to do this,” says Leonforde.
“The pay It forward initiative is set to instill a spirit of generosity, community support, and sustainable giving, aligning with the values of Christ that are at the core of Café Caye Mangé,” reads a media release.
A UNIQUE MENU
Café Caye Mangé aims to be a vibrant culinary destination. It is dedicated to providing wholesome, delicious, and sustainable plant-based and sugar-free cuisine. The café believes in the power of plant-based foods to nourish both the body and soul, committed to creating a positive impact on individuals and the community.
“I am very thankful for the support of friends and family, especially my daughter Amelia who planted the seed in my mind to open a cafe. Her and my husband Tyrone made sure that I knew I could do this over the past year and a half preparing to start this journey,” Leonforde says.
Leonforde adds she is beyond grateful for the opportunities presented at IGNITE Atlantic in helping her with her business venture. Being a resident, having access to important resources, and receiving lots of amazing support is something she highly recommends to others who are considering starting their own business journey or who need support along the way.
“I am proud to have opened the first black female business on Yarmouth's Main Street downtown,” she says. “It is a plus for our community and
I am happy to share the same ‘You can do this' spirit with other black and non-black female and non-female entrepreneurs of all ages in our area. I am very excited for what's to come.”
HELPING OTHERS
Leonforde notes that food insecurity is definitely an issue that impacts Yarmouth as well as other areas.
“Those who cannot afford healthy food options but want to improve their health shall be supported by being able to pick up a donated bowl to help them reach their nutritional goals without judgment,” she says.
To kickstart the pay it forward' initiative, Café Caye Mangé has garnered support from the Yarmouth Seventh Day Adventist Church and ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency). The donation will serve as the
initial funding for the Pay It Forward Program.
“I am a 7th Day Adventist Christian and I am very grateful for the support from my church community in this mission,” Leonforde says.
“Together we can change so much.”
Café Caye Mangé invites its guests to be active participants in the pay it torward movement. Customers will have the option to make voluntary
contributions towards the program when settling their bills by contributing donations towards more lunch bowls or beverages at any amount.
Those in need of a free meal are invited to come in during opening hours and let staff know, so they can receive a nutritious meal and/or a nice beverage.
“Chef Pamela and Café
Caye Mangé are committed to continue and start collaborating with local community organizations, schools, the Tri-County Women's Centre, the Yarmouth Regional Hospital Health board, Acts Of Kindness, and others to identify and address pressing needs in the near future,” a media release reads.
Café Caye Mangé and Chef Leonforde believe the Pay It Forward Program will not only nourish bodies, but also souls within the community.