BeKinder Coffee, a nonprofit coffee shop with a mission to employ refugees and asylum seekers, has recently opened its first brick and mortar store in Dallas. Founded by Jane Huong Gow, a refugee herself, BeKinder Coffee aims to pay forward the opportunities and support that Gow received when she arrived in the U.S.
Gow’s journey began at the age of 13 when she was forced to leave her home in Vietnam after the fall of Saigon in 1975. Upon arriving in the U.S., her family faced challenges due to tensions surrounding the Vietnam War. Despite these difficulties, Gow was able to attend college and worked in IT for over 30 years. However, she felt a calling to do more and make a difference for others facing similar struggles.
In 2020, Gow founded BeKinder Coffee from her home, initially making vegan granola bars and snacks. The company expanded over time, with products being sold in select Central Markets in North Texas and the Denton Farmer’s Market. Now, with the opening of the brick and mortar store, Gow’s dream of creating a standard of kindness that welcomes refugees into a safe community is coming to fruition.
For Gow, BeKinder Coffee is not just about employment; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and equipping refugees with the tools they need to thrive. The nonprofit offers education opportunities to help employees with acclimation and acculturation, including English language lessons tailored to their personal interests to aid in adapting to their new surroundings.
Deborah Fessenden, the nonprofit’s education director, emphasizes the importance of building lasting relationships with refugees and creating a supportive community. Scholarships are also available for eligible employees who require financial assistance to attend college. Through compassion and hard work, BeKinder Coffee is dedicated to creating a welcoming and safe environment for those in need of support upon their arrival in Texas.
In conclusion, BeKinder Coffee’s mission to empower refugees and asylum seekers through employment and education is a testament to the resilience and compassion of its founder, Jane Huong Gow. By providing opportunities for growth and support, BeKinder Coffee is making a meaningful impact in the lives of those seeking a fresh start in a new country.