“Grounds for Haiti” rounds up talent with Trail-area coffee shops to support Plan Canada

It started with three people who wanted to make a difference and it has turned into a collective fundraising effort focused on long-term rebuilding efforts in Haiti.

“Grounds for Haiti is a grass-roots effort that people have just jumped on board to support,” says volunteer Kari Colbachini;“When this was first being brainstormed, it became something tangible that we all felt we could help with in a way to support the rebuilding efforts in Haiti after the horrible devastation caused by the earthquake. We are so fortunate in life, especially to live where we do and because our local coffee shops have just embraced this idea, hence the name “Grounds” for Haiti,” she adds. 

In January, local coffee shops were approached with the idea of either having a donation tin at their tills or at best, hosting a “coffee-house” style evening that would feature live entertainment and coffee, tea and desserts. 

“Trail Coffee and Tea was the first to join us and from there, we have added both locations of Clive’s Coffee Bar, Rebelato’s Morning Perk and Bounce N’ Brew,” she says. “This is a great opportunity for people to come out, enjoy some live music and know their dollars are going to help with Haiti aid efforts with a reputable organization. We are working with Plan Canada and as described on their website, Plan is one of the oldest and largest development organizations operating in Haiti and they have been playing a critical role in the relief efforts, collaborating with local organizations, governments, the UN, and other international agencies to respond to the immediate and ongoing needs of families and children in the midst of this unprecedented crisis.”

“The first coffee house evening will take place on Friday night, March 26th at the Trail Coffee and Tea Company with well-known Rosslander, Tim Bourchier entertaining guests. All musicians who have agreed to take part are donating their own time as well to help our efforts. The second coffee house evening is set for Friday night, April 16th at Clive’s Coffee Bar in downtown Trail with musician, Amber Joy,” Colbachini says. “We are currently working on other ideas as well like a kids’ afternoon of entertainment at Bounce N’ Brew. If the coffee house evenings go well, there are opportunities to host more.”

Tickets will be $30 each which includes a $25 tax receipt from Plan Canada, coffee/tea and a dessert. Tickets are set to be on sale from volunteers and at Trail Coffee and Tea and Clive’s Coffee Bar by Friday, March 5th. For tickets, please call 250-921-8044 or email:groundsforhaiti@yahoo.ca