A new cafe is coming to the Footscray CBD, but one that will provide more than just lattes and smashed avocado on toast.
The state government, Maribyrnong council, the Western Bulldogs Foundation and the Salvation Army have combined to establish a new community cafe that will double as a resource for disadvantaged people in the area.
Footscray MP Katie Hall said the yet to be named cafe on the corner of Albert and Paisley streets will be modelled on the Salvation Army’s Magpie Cafe in the Melbourne city centre.
“The idea of this model is that people have a safe and welcoming place to come and have a meal and build relationships with the staff to connect them with services that will help them,” Ms Hall said.
“If someone needs primary or allied health or even if they just need a shower or dental care, this hub will be able to refer people to where they need to go.”
Ms Hall said she secured funding for the cafe after lobbying the Premier Jacinta Allan last year.
“Since then it’s just been a matter of getting other people on board.”
Those on board include the Salvos who will run the cafe, Maribyrnong council who will cover the rent, and the Western Bulldogs Foundation and Bulldogs champion Tom Liberatore, who will act as an ambassador for the cafe as well as providing some of his hospitality industry nous.
A spokesperson for the Western Bulldogs said Liberatore’s commitment to Footscray and its community was genuine and heartfelt.
“He will undoubtedly bring his usual passion and commitment to this project and our club and community foundation look forward to working with him and Maribyrnong council to help bring it to life,” the spokesperson said.
The cafe in the old Metro West shopping centre is expected open in six weeks and will initially run for a 12 month trial period, though Ms Hall is confident it will last much longer than that.
“I really think this will be a great success.”
Maribyrnong council and the Salvation Army were contacted for comment.
