Make an impact today
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Make an impact today *
Donating to a "pay what you can" café that supports unhoused populations is like giving a big ol' high-five to kindness and community! Ursula’s Cafe isn’t just about food—we’re about making sure no one has to choose between a meal and their dignity.
When you pitch in, you’re helping create a place where people can fill their bellies without judgment and connect with others in need. It’s a deliciously simple way to spread some love, break down barriers, and make sure everyone gets a seat at the table—because when we all chip in, we all thrive.
Plus, your contribution helps turn hunger into hope and brings a little more goodness into the world. So, go ahead—feed a stomach, fill a heart, and add a sprinkle of awesome to someone’s day!
We also welcome donations in the form of gift cards to Kroger, the Roanoke Co+Op, or your favorite grocery store. If you or your group/organization is interested in doing a canned goods or food drive, please contact us directly for details.
How you can help!
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Donate once or sign up for a monthly gift—either way, your money goes straight to helping our unhoused neighbors in Roanoke get access to healthy, nourishing food. Every contribution makes a real difference!
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Give the gift of your time! Volunteer with us and be a direct part of making a positive impact in our community. Every hour you spend helps create a welcoming space for those who need it most!
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Spread the word! Share our social media posts and help us raise awareness about the cause. Your click can help amplify our message and bring more support to those who need it!
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Talk about us and help spread the word! Every conversation you start helps more people learn about our mission and how they can make a difference. Let’s get the community talking and make some real change!
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Buy an Ursula Buck and brighten someone’s day! You can give it to someone in need or pay it forward in the café—either way, you're spreading kindness and helping someone else enjoy a meal. It's a simple way to make a big impact!
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Come on in and join the fun! Stop by the café and attend our events—whether you're grabbing a meal or enjoying a community gathering, you're helping create a warm, welcoming space for everyone!
“Having a pay-what-you-can cafe is such a dream come true business to be part of our community; an emphasizes on love, humanity, and mutual aide is ever present at Ursula’s and Roanoke is better because of it!”
“Ursula’s is an inspiration and a gift to this area.”
Jason Turner
“Ursula’s reminds me to keep finding creative and compassionate ways to show up for community. Ursula’s gives us opportunities to show up, and sets examples for us to expand and adapt in our own lives.”
Chloe Johnson
“It makes me believe that places like this can keep existing. It's so important especially right now for all of our communities to know that we are allowed to take space, and places like this make it easier for us, making us feel safe.”
Anonymous
Courtney Foxe
FAQs
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FAQs *
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An Ursula Buck is a physical token that can be used to pay for a meal or service at our café. It’s named after Ursula, and is designed to help bridge the gap for those who may be experiencing financial hardship. You can buy an Ursula Buck and give it to someone in need, or use it to pay it forward in the café, ensuring that everyone has access to a warm, healthy meal, no matter their circumstances. It’s all about spreading kindness and supporting one another!
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It’s all about spreading good vibes and filling bellies! There are suggested prices here—pay what you feel you can, whether it’s a little, a lot, or even a zero. If you’re lucky enough to have some extra change, your donation helps cover the cost for someone else who might need a hand. It’s a system of mutual aid, where generosity and compassion help create a welcoming space for all.
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Our regular menu features hearty 3-bean vegan chili and delicious pesto and mozzarella sandwiches. But that's not all! We also serve up mouthwatering pimento cheese sandwiches, rotating soups and desserts of the week, plus a whole variety of coffee and tea options to keep you refreshed and satisfied!
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We are not a soup kitchen. We are a café that operates on a system where customers are invited to pay whatever they feel they can afford for their meal. The idea is to offer a more dignified experience, where people from all walks of life—whether they're struggling financially or just looking for a delicious meal—can enjoy a shared space. A pay what you can café fosters a community-driven model of giving and receiving.