A long-time provider of homeless services in Fresno opened a new cafe Wednesday in what organizers said they hope will give people one of life’s simple pleasures — a restaurant dining experience.
Papa Mike’s Cafe opened inside the Poverello House on Wednesday offering a menu of five to seven choices daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, according to staffers.
Fernando Escajeda, 57, said he’d chosen the Papa Mike’s Burger, one of the options for lunch alongside chicken tenders, a pastrami panini and other meals. He said being able to order from a restaurant menu was an uncommon treat for him.
”I like it. They’re helping the homeless a lot,” he said. “It’s great to get out of the streets.”
Originally from El Paso, Texas, he was about 17 when he followed his mom to California. He’d been living on the street for the past three years in Fresno, but recently got help for housing.
”I finally got my own apartment. It was a great feeling,” he said.
The Poverello House has long been known for helping those experiencing homelessness or needing a helping hand. The new cafe is open to anyone.