Coffee-lovers urged to drink up for a local cause

Brisbane coffee king Dean Merlo and Youngcare CEO Anthony Ryan are calling on coffee-lovers across Queensland to drink up on Friday May 10, when $1 from every cup sold at Merlo’s 15 cafes will help provide life-changing support for young people with high care needs, such as the new accessible accommodation being built at Astley Parade.

 

Mr Merlo said Youngcare helped meet a vital community need.

 

“Most of us start the day with a cup of coffee but, by doing it at a Merlo café next Friday, you can make it a for a great cause,” Mr Merlo said.

 

Mr Ryan said the funds raised by Merlo coffee drinkers would benefit families like those moving into the Youngcare development at North Lakes.

 

“Around 2,500 young Queenslanders with high care needs are currently living in inappropriate accommodation such as aged care, institutions and even hospital rooms because there’s not enough accessible, supported housing to meet demand,” Mr Ryan said.

 

“Our North Lakes integrated housing development will deliver young Queenslanders with a disability an age-appropriate living environment suited to their needs.”

 

Earthworks commenced last month and the first residents are due to move in next year. The development will include seven two-bedroom apartments with 24-hour care, as well as a rehabilitation provider for the residents and the community.

 

Find your nearest Merlo café to enjoy coffee for a great cause: merlo.com.au/locations.