MILWAUKEE — Community members flocked to help the struggling Coffee Makes You Black café on Milwaukee's north side this weekend.
The two-day “Brunching Makes You Black” event kicked off at Coffee Makes You Black Saturday morning to promote business during a difficult time.
The event was created after customers learned of the shop struggling financially as prolonged construction continues along Teutonia Avenue.
“I figured let’s do it and make an event of it because people should come and eat here,” said event organizer Lilo Allen.
She decided to organize the event after the initial reports of the cafe's struggles. Regulars say that customers were deterred by the construction.
“I think the community values the space and they’ve shown that,” Allen said.
Alderman Russell Stamper said he’s going to explore ways city leaders can help small businesses survive extended construction events like this.
“The number one thing is the city has to do more to support small businesses,” the alderman said.
Another brunch event is planned for Sunday. For more information, click here.
