Next Step Soul Food Cafe to Re-Open KickOff

Hello, I am Michelle White, Chef & Owner of Next Step Soul Food Cafe. Founded in 2016. We are a 34 Seat Soul Food Cafe that has been closed since February 2020. I have been determined to open back up because my family and community need me to. I am located in the heart of Dorchester, Codman Square, Metro Boston. I'm one of a kind. There is nowhere in my area where one can sit down and enjoy a quick cup of coffee and some delicious Soulfood.

I Support my community by shopping/Spending Locally. It's essential to make sure that we realize we are all in this thing together. My Goal is to feed anyone who asks, regardless of their ability to pay. Like My Momma, Ms. Annie always had enough for an extra seat at the table when I was a child. My Mother is still the official taste-tester to authenticate the food we produce. Traditional Dishes like Fried Chicken, Potato Salad, BBQ Chicken, Smothered Porkchops, Collard Greens, Mac & Cheese, and Sweet Potato Pie. I could go on because Soulfood is much more than just those dishes I mentioned.

I am also a haven for the youth in my community, instead of pushing them away. I welcome them in. They call me the Soul Food Lady. When they get good grades, I treat them to a special dinner. I also find time for the elderly in my community. My cafe is a place for our elders to perch while on their way to shop or perhaps trip to the Codman Square Health Centre. I love this community. I have lived and worked in this same area for over 35 years.

During the pandemic, we broke several pieces of equipment and lost hundreds of dollars in food. Somehow we pulled it together and are now fundraising/ open for business. Immediate needs: Money for rent and a new Ventless Oven. It would increase my production 60%. I'm behind in rent because it is so hard starting up again, and there are many bills to pay. Starting up has been difficult. Covid hit us hard, and it was up to me to support my family and pay rent every month when I was closed. God helped me because I have much more to give and contribute to my community. Please join me in my Soulfood Misson in the heart of Boston.