Support Gabriel and Andrea after the 900 Cafe fire

Hi,

We have started this fundraiser to help Gabriel and Andrea after the total devastation of their business, 900 cafe on Wednesday 12th February.

The alarm was raised and the fire service rung at 7.30am but sadly, by the time the fire had been put out, considerable damage was already done rendering the building not fit for purpose.

The kitchen and downstairs areas, including all the fridges, were unaffected by the flames but will more likely have to be written off due to the amount of water damage.

Both of the upstairs floors were burnt through, with the wonderful children’s playroom being totally ruined. One of the original main wooden beams has also been significantly damaged, and the cafe is to be closed until further notice.

The cafe had only just been completely repainted inside, new equipment had recently been purchased and the fridges fully stocked, in anticipation of re-opening on Thursday 13th, after the couple had just returned from a much needed break visiting family.

Speaking with Gabriel, they were really looking forward to being back open and excited that they had just celebrated the cafes 1st Anniversary. Now they don’t know what the future will bring, as they wait to hear how long the repairs and renovations might take, to get them back open again. Being unable to open, means a lack of trade and therefore, a lack of funds and loss of earnings. Thankfully, the insurance covers many things but unfortunately they have been told, not for the loss of income.

Gabriel and Andrea are a lovely couple who have truly embraced our Wallingford community and the 900 cafe was much loved, and a must place to visit for delicious breakfasts, home cooked lunches and truly scrumptious homemade cakes! - it was also the only independent cafe with a children’s play area. The cafe hosted many community run voluntary meetings, together with supporting and sponsoring the community events we all cherish and love, bringing customers and visitors into Wallingford.

The couple, who have a 2 year old daughter, have uncertain times ahead; not knowing how they will be able to support themselves financially going forward and are looking at what other options will be available to them. We are all hoping they will be able to renovate and re-open quickly, as we all miss them.

In the meantime, we are hoping that the wonderful Wallingford community will be able to come together and help them out with raising some funds to help slightly ease the stress and financial worries, at this difficult time.

Any amount, however big or small, will be greatly appreciated.

Many Thanks

Friends of 900 Cafe