The community of Anoka is about to welcome a unique and compassionate addition. On Monday, October 28th, from 7 AM to 4 PM, Compassion Coffee will celebrate its grand opening at 530 West Main Street #8, Anoka, MN. The day marks more than just the launch of a coffee shop; it signifies a powerful step towards helping individuals experiencing homelessness and reflects a growing movement of compassion within the city.
The Vision Behind Compassion Coffee and Church
The story of Compassion Coffee is intertwined with that of Compassion Church, and both are closely connected to Stepping Stone Emergency Housing. Pastor Rob Bergfalk, the founder of Compassion Church, began his journey as a volunteer with Stepping Stone at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. His dream was twofold: to create a welcoming space of worship in Anoka and to establish a coffeehouse that could provide employment opportunities for those experiencing homelessness.
Compassion Church was born from this vision and has grown into a community-focused organization that aims to serve individuals struggling with homelessness, poverty, and other challenges. Alongside the church, Compassion Coffee emerged as a natural extension of this mission—a place where community members can come together, enjoy a cup of coffee, and support a social cause that truly matters.
Helping Stepping Stone Residents Get Back on Their Feet
Stepping Stone Emergency Housing has long been at the forefront of addressing homelessness in the Anoka area, providing safe shelter, resources, and support for individuals aged 18 and older. The organization believes in empowering residents to overcome barriers and find stability, and that’s where Compassion Coffee and Compassion Church come in.
The coffeehouse aims to offer more than just employment; it will serve as a stepping stone for individuals looking to rebuild their lives. By providing job opportunities to those who are or have been homeless, Compassion Coffee gives people a chance to gain valuable work experience, build confidence, and develop skills that are essential for re-entering the workforce.
Compassion Church, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in offering spiritual and emotional support. The church is a place where individuals can find community, engage in meaningful activities, and access resources that can help them navigate the complexities of life. This dual approach of employment and spiritual support is designed to give people the holistic care they need to move forward.
Stepping Stone’s Role in the Grand Opening
Stepping Stone is proud to sponsor the grand opening of Compassion Coffee, a partnership that reflects their shared commitment to serving the community. Through their ongoing collaboration, Stepping Stone and Compassion Coffee will work together to create a supportive environment where individuals can thrive, break the cycle of homelessness, and achieve lasting change.
For Pastor Rob Bergfalk, the journey from volunteer to Stepping Stone employee, and now to founder of both Compassion Coffee and Compassion Church, is a testament to the power of service, community, and perseverance. His story is one of inspiration and determination, showing what can happen when a simple idea is nurtured into something that can truly transform lives.
Join Us for the Grand Opening
The grand opening of Compassion Coffee is more than just an event; it is a celebration of new beginnings, hope, and community spirit. Come join us on Monday, October 28th, from 7 AM to 4 PM at 530 West Main Street #8, Anoka, MN, and be part of a movement that believes in the dignity and potential of every individual. Whether you stop by for a cup of coffee, a conversation, or to learn more about how you can get involved, your presence will help support a mission dedicated to bringing positive change to the Anoka area.
Compassion Coffee and Compassion Church are here to serve, and together with Stepping Stone Emergency Housing, they are making strides to create a more compassionate world—one cup, one conversation, and one connection at a time.