A crowdfunding campaign to save a South Bristol coffee shop from closure has raised more than £2,000 in less than a day. Hennessey’s Coffee Shop on North Street in Bedminster could permanently close its doors due to the current economic climate.
On Thursday, September 29, the Just Giving page was launched to rescue the establishment which is said to have been significantly impacted by rising energy costs. An extract from the crowd funder reads: “Hennesseys coffee shop has been running for 15 years and is a core part of the BS3 community.
“It’s a friendly haven for the diverse residents in Southville and Bedminster, from pensioners to the school children who visit each day to buy a hot chocolate and raid the tin of sweets he keeps for them behind the counter.”
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It then makes reference to the business owner’s charitability by “donating the day's leftover food”. It continues: “Even with the unfulfilled promises of government financial assistance” the owner “will be forced to permanently close his doors at the end of October”.
According to the fundraiser, the business tries to keep its “menu prices low to ensure food and hot drinks are accessible to members of the community on low incomes”. It concludes by saying that the funds received will assist with the running costs of the “BS3 institution”, allowing it “to remain open for the next six months”.
This quickly caught the attention of customers in and around the Bedminster area who have taken to social media in the hope of spreading more awareness. Many also expressed how sad they felt about losing their go-to establishment.
Lee Prescott said: “One of the most genuine and nicest guys you will ever meet, this is so sad.”
Elaine Wishart said: “This is awful news...I love the place and Mike was so friendly when I moved in literally 6 doors down. Gutted I haven't been in more…”
She continues: “It's just the best quirky friendly cafe..moving from London 4 years or so ago it was a haven for me and you always get chatting to strangers! Also the best chai latte ever..properly hot too…”
Bristol Live has reached out to Hennesey’s Coffee Shop for comments.
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