This website uses cookies for anonymised analytics and for account authentication. See our privacy and cookies policies for more information.





The voice of Scotland’s vibrant voluntary sector

Published by Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations

TFN is published by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations, Mansfield Traquair Centre, 15 Mansfield Place, Edinburgh, EH3 6BB. The Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) is a Scottish Charitable Incorporated Organisation. Registration number SC003558.

New cafe opens in Glasgow urging the public to buy coffee to help the homeless

This news post is 12 months old
 

Prime site for the social enterprise

Social Bite has opened a new flagship coffee shop in the heart of Glasgow.

Located on Sauchiehall Street, the new coffee shop boasts an impressive menu to whet the appetite of Glaswegians including homemade bagels, toasties and artisan baking.

Coffee-lovers will be treated to organic, fairtrade triple certified beans from renowned roaster Mathew Algie, with all members of the shop’s team undergoing Barista training at the Mathew Algie Coffee School to ensure the perfect blend is served.  

The social enterprise café will help Glasgow’s homeless population by offering training and employment opportunities to people in a situation of homelessness and a pay it forward system where the public can buy a meal or hot drink for someone in need.

The new Glasgow outlet will welcome homeless and vulnerable people to access a free hot drink and a meal at various times throughout the day alongside paying customers. 100% of the profits from the café will be reinvested in Social Bite’s mission of ending homelessness.  

Josh Littlejohn, the co-founder of Social Bite, said: “We are thrilled to open our new flagship coffee shop in the heart of Glasgow. I really see this venture as the new blueprint for our social enterprise business model – offering the best-in-class food, coffee and environment for our customers to enjoy, whilst also making a massive difference to people in a situation of homelessness in the city.

"I would encourage all Glaswegians to come and enjoy some great coffee and food for themselves and to pay it forward for someone in need. We can’t wait to welcome you in.” 

Melanie Swan, the charity's commercial and operations director, said: “Our new Glasgow location really is your one stop shop to enjoy authentic, Glaswegian sweet treats, hot food and quality coffee.  

“We’ve taken a lot of time to put together our exciting menu, ensuring we’re working with some of the best local brands and people who believe in and support our mission.  

“What better way to relax and enjoy your coffee in the heart of beautiful Glasgow with a lovely handmade cake or pastry and all the while, know that you’re doing your bit to help others.”  

Andy, Social Bite supported team member, added: “Social Bite didn't change my life, it saved my life.  

“I've volunteered for Social Bite for seven years so it's great to see the new shop back in the heart of Glasgow and have a hub for the homeless community.  

“It’s a warm and welcoming place for the Glasgow community and importantly will help Social Bite provide the same invaluable support and guidance to others that has helped me so much.”