Story
We imagine a city where everyone — including those living with addiction or on the margins of society — knows they matter, and understands their worth.
Chocolate & Co opened their doors just steps away from our first home a little over two years ago. In those two years, they have truly made their mark as a bustling hub for the local community.
This charity really can do it all: provide phenomenal hot chocolates, lunches and cake, all the while carrying out a transformative charitable initiative.
I couldn't think of a more deserving charity to fundraise for - especially given I have spent most of my maternity leave either training for the marathon or at their cafe!
By breaking down barriers and challenging stigma, we’re building a community where meaningful work offers purpose, dignity, and the opportunity for a brighter future.
To date, Chocolate & Co have provided 17 people (and counting) with employment and training opportunities with the intention of supporting them in moving into further employment outside of the charity. As part of this, they offer support with their general wellbeing, as well as those in the wider community through their Coffee Shop Counselling project (working with York in Recovery & Changing Lives).
Chocolate & Co have also provided hundreds of lunches and hot drinks to local people in need as part of their community outreach initiative, as well as encouraging a 'pay it forward' scheme at the cafe.
Please take a read of their initiative in their own words below, and consider donating to a truly fantastic cause:
The Chocolate & Co Story…
Chocolate & Co was born from heartbreak - and from hope. After losing two friends, to addiction during the isolation of the pandemic, we knew we had to act. We’d seen how powerful it was when they had purpose, paid work, and a sense of community - and how devastating it was when all of that disappeared.
Rooted in lived experience and driven by love, we created Chocolate & Co to challenge the stigma surrounding addiction, and to create space for those so often left behind. Because when people feel seen, supported, and given a real chance - they can rebuild.
We believe everyone has potential. That purpose and belonging are powerful tools for change. And that a more compassionate society starts with how we treat the most overlooked among us.
Through meaningful employment, community, and connection, we’re building something different - a space where dignity leads, and transformation is possible. One person at a time.