FRUIT COVE, Fla. — Noah's Agape Café is a new non-profit teaming up with the Down Syndrome Association of Jacksonville, Best Buddies Association of North Florida, and North Florida School of Special Education.
The owner, Beckie Schwartz says the idea was to give those with intellectual differences, like her son Noah, a safe and fun place to work.
"We just wanted something good to do in the community. There’s like 80% of kids with disabilities that are not employed and we want them to have meaningful jobs," Schwartz said.
Parents of employees like Michelle Tetschner say it's a great addition to the community.
“When people can come in and see them doing work and being valued for their talents and strengths it makes a big difference in their eyes. Raymond [Tetschner's son] has always wanted to simply, belong and to have a satisfying job, and to live independently and this coffee shop is a great way for him to start those skills," Tetschner said.
“We just want to do whatever we can for our community whether it's helping someone who needs a wheelchair or employment or just comes in for a prayer whatever you need we just wanted to be the hands and feet for Jesus," Schwartz said.
Noah's Agape Cafe's grand opening is Sept. 10 at 9 a.m.