I have attended several events through Harmony Cafe as a professional member of an Independent Living Center, Suffolk Independent Living Organization. I have always been very pleased with the efforts of Harmony Cafe, and the ambience they create for their participant population. The staff of Harmony Cafe have been inviting, compassionate, and offered assistance throughout all their events to make sure all individuals, disabled and not are provided a well-rounded, comfortable experience.
I fully support Harmony Cafe in their continued efforts to provide hot meals and entertainment to members of our communities without the ability to provide food to themselves.
Harmony Cafe is an amazing program that offers the community so much help from local volunteers. These individuals have huge amazing hearts and are such a wonderful bunch. I first found out about them during Covid. They were a blessing with their food distribution line. They made sure the community could eat and children didn’t go hungry during some scary times.
Just recently one of their volunteers dropped off much needed baby supplies to my house. This was amazing and so thoughtful.
I hope that everyone locally that can give back to them are able and willing so they can continue their journey to help those in need.
Harmony Cafe does wonderful work in the community. It’s been a pleasure to work and collaborate with them on behalf of the community.
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Harmony cafe does a wonderful job bringing people together and serving food to the community. Rose and her volunteers are always ready to tackle food insecurity issues with their entertaining meal events and other social offerings. It is a much needed fixture in our community, unfortunately now more then ever.
Harmony cafe has been a pleasure to collaborate with for community causes and services! Our Long Island women’s group has been able to meet in a space provided by this non profit which has provided support and inspiration for many. The Arts Stage of our local summer festival has partnered up for fundraising. This non profit seeks to empower and provide service to the community at large, it is valuable and a blessing to all that receive.
It was a wonderful day volunteering at the harvesting of vegetables.Every one was so kind and mindful. Happy to help the people were fabulous
I first read about Harmony Cafe in the local paper. I was intrigued. There is such a need for their services in our area. I wanted to learn more. I attended pop up events, classes and volunteer! Their mission of fighting food insecurity and promoting education for a healthier lifestyle is giving those within the surrounding communities hope as they tackle the societal issues in a dignified way. They are paving they way to without making those in need feel less than, and that isn’t easy. When you attend a meal event, food drive, harvest event, or an educational class as an attendee or volunteer- you are treated with respect and feel part of a larger family with the goal of helping each other attain healthy achievable goals.
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I have been a volunteer with Harmony Café since their first event. After learning of their cause in a news article, I knew I wanted to be involved. Hunger does not have a face. It is not as easily recognizable as everyone may think. There is a need within our community to offer healthy meals regardless of ones ability to pay. Through Harmony Café, not only are we able to help our community with this pressing issue, we are also able to bring the community together. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. It is a hand up not a hand out. With Rose’s approach and personality, the good vibes are infectious. On a personal level, when I am there my problems are a little smaller and my heart is a little bigger. If you haven’t been to an event, I recommend it. I guarantee not only will you have a great time, but you leave with a positive energy that changes your day to a better one than when you walked in.
Harmony Cafe is more than just healthy food for people- For us as an Independent Living Center, serving the community's needs, for people with disabilities, Harmony Cafe has been steadfast and consistent in their loving Kindness services !
Harmony Cafe Welcomes the homeless, the elderly, children, people with disabilities, and through their outreach program,provide Direct Support to people in Suffolk County. Rosemary and her Staff, have grown the Cafe and have expanded their services, and are a valuable resource within our community. Thank you! We Love Harmony Cafe!
Alberta Galdi/Suffolk Independent Living Organization-Public Education and Outreach
Harmony Cafe is a wonderful organization who serves the community in many ways. They not only feed those in need they assist the community both physically and emotionally.
Harmony Cafe arrived at the Patchogue Neighbors Soup Kitchen held at Saint Francis DeSales at 6 am with a truckload of fresh picked produce. We were able to offer fresh produce to dozens of families, most of who this truly helped provide nutritional food that many could not afford to buy. Harmony cafe was so generous we filled two large tables with produce. We truly appreciate their generosity. I write this review as the lead coordinator of the soup kitchen.
I recently helped harvest crops with other volunteers. It was a great experience working along side people gathering food to be given to food pantries and soup kitchens. The Harmony Cafe, due to their dedication to food insecure people, harvested over 800 pounds of vegetables! I look forward to helping out with Rose and the others any way I can.
Helping to serve meals at the Harmony Cafe brought so much joy to those who partook of the delicious and affordable meal. The meals were always healthy with fresh vegetables included. All of the staff and volunteers were friendly and efficient. The environment was very clean. Entertainment was uplifting too! I am so blessed to serve the wonderful attendees!
Joan Nathan
Volunteer
Such a great organization that really helps the community. I love their mission and we need to serve healthy food to those that need it the most. I would like to volunteer more for them once I retired. Please check them out and get involved, we truly need this type of cafe in our town. They are determined to create one. I know that is the vision, but they are still doing great work now in the community.
Wonderful organization and I enjoy volunteering. The community really needs a cafe that serves healthy food by donation. Now more than ever this cafe is needed.
Harmony Cafe does great work in the community. I really appreciate their thanksgiving dinner that they provide to the community for free. It is always a wonderful event and I look forward to attending each year
It was a great learning experience about reading labels, Understanding the label content
sodium, calories, fats, sugars. I loved the cooking healthy recipes that were supplied.
I always looked forward to class and learning new healthy recipes. The strong connection made with my fellow classmates that will last beyond the ending of the program. I would love to continue meeting up again at a monthly basis and for there to be a Facebook group that is open to all F.E.A.S.T graduates regardless of what group or session they were in; where we can share recipes, support, and information.
Feast came to my life when I need it the most. I wanted to learn how to cook healthy because my daughter at 14 years old became vegan, my husband and I got worried because she is so young and we though she must eat meat, but now I support her 100 %. I learned with FEAST program that we can be healthy without meat, and I also enjoyed the delicious plant-based recipes. My daughter told me to follow my heart and I did. I wanted to learn more about plant-based meals and I I joined FEAST I feel very happy and I'm thankful to all members, donors, teachers, and leaders that make it possible. Thank you so much! I suggested a class in Spanish. Our Patchogue community is diverse, and more families can benefit with FEAST.
I have made many noticeable changes in my and my family's eating-lifestyle since attending the Feast program. I am reading labels almost all the time, planning nutritious meals and trying new foods like black beans, humus, kale and whole wheat bread or tortillas. I am also very happy that my husband who is a diabetic, just had a blood test and his A1C was noticeably better (7.4 from 9.4). His doctor was thrilled. My husband has even become more supportive and together we bought me a used bicycle so we can go riding together. I am feeling physically and emotionally better too but haven’t had a doctor’s appointment. I feel more alert and have a more positive attitude. I look forward to coming to Feast each week and interacting with this non-judgmental, sharing group of diverse and genuinely caring people
It has been a great experience being able to participate in the Harmony Cafe program . I have learned a lot about healthy foods . Where to get them and how to prepare them . And also the benefits of eating healthy and what foods you should avoid . And most of the getting to meet and socialize and share things with a wonderful group of people . Rosemarie McCarthy and Maryellen have been awesome through out this program , helping and supporting and teaching . It has been a great experience, so happy that I am a part of it .
Harmony Cafe has been a wonderful experience. Mary Ellen and Rosemarie are very knowledgeable and are teaching us alot of ways to be frugal with our meals while still staying healthy! I love the plant based recipes and use them often. Having the ingredients on hand is also very helpful.
I am a local resident and have supported Harmony Café over the years. They are a wonderful Long Island charity. I love their mission and hope that they can raise enough funding to open a nonprofit community café. We could really use a café that offers healthy meals based upon a suggested donation. Now more than ever, this café is needed.
I have been volunteering with Harmony Cafe for a couple of months and it has been great! They really want you to succeed and will help in any way they can. This experience has allowed me to be a part of so many amazing opportunities!!
I volunteered with Harmony Cafe this spring for their pilot organic gardening program. Each week throughout the summer and into the fall we harvested the vegetables we planted and then shared them with those in the community that typically would not have the chance to eat nature’s bounty. What a delight it was on every visit, along with Rosemarie and the other volunteers, to see the veges grow and to know that the fruits of our labor would soon be appreciated by our neighbors. I can’t wait until next year!
My family and I attended the thanksgiving dinner last year at the Toast Coffeehouse. It was such a wonderful event and the meals were delicious, My husband and I had our hours cut at work because of the pandemic, and having the ability to enjoy a restaurant meal with our kids really made the holiday so special We felt normal again. Because our situation we wouldn't of been able to afford such a wonderful meals. This year we are back to full time hours and we plan on giving back by donating to this wonderful event!
Harmony Cafe is a great nonprofit! I am a donor and I give during the holidays. Harmony Cafe is an all volunteer organization. I know my donation goes right to the people that need it. If you are looking to give to a charity, check out harmony cafe!
I just became aware of this organization because of the FEAST program. This program has showed me how to choose healthier options. It has given me knowledge that is just invaluable about what I eat, what’s in the foods I eat and how to choose more Whole Foods.
Recently I became aware of the Harmony Café.
Their mission to offer access to affordable, healthful food and nutrition information in a community setting is a noble effort.
As a career chef and lover of simply prepared good food, I am happy to be involved with Rosemarie McCarthy and the volunteers who are the force behind the Harmony Café. Respect for others is sorely absent in our everyday world and even more so if you are financially challenged.
Harmony Café is a bright light of humanity offering food and respect to hungry humans.
I love that this organization provides insight on health & nutrition as well as teaching one how to make healthy choices in eating and planning meals. It's so difficult with all the junk food we eat these days to even think about good eating habits. They promote wellness and understanding by providing the services, tools, encouragement and support needed to help one focus on living a healthier lifestyle. Thank you for a great Feast Program and services!
As a business owner, I unfortunately can't donate to everyone who asks. As a volunteer of Harmony Cafe, imagine my surprise when I reviewed our businesses donations recently and realized Harmony was one of our very first donations! I was drawn then as I am now to the Harmony Cafe vision of a community in which all people have access to high-quality, locally-sourced nutritious and affordable food, in a socially engaging environment that inspires a healthy mind, body, and spirit. With the covid19 pandemic, unable to participate in my normal givebacks, I reached out to Rosemarie regarding volunteering in the community garden: outdoors, socially distanced, soaking up sunshine and getting to know like-minded individuals while growing healthy foods for those less fortunate in our community seemed like a win-win. We will move straight from closing down the garden for winter into the InHarmony Toastgiving dinner, where we will provide free Thanksgiving meals to those needing a helping hand who have been impacted financially by Covid19, even available for curbside pickup! As well, we are currently offering a program of classes, to not only teach individuals about eating healthy and delicious, but also providing the means to do so while supporting one another socially! I look forward to the day where we can all gather together and break bread while dancing to some sweet tunes, but in the meantime; these are still difficult times for many, and having a place to connect where the good vibes are contagious benefits all involved. What a wonderful program for our community, and I am so happy to have the chance to be involved in it. Thanks Rosemarie for bringing your vision to life!
What a great charity! They are such an asset to the community, helping provide food and also holding classes to introduce healthier eating habits/lifestyles. Everyone is so friendly and helpful.
So many wonderful things are happening at Harmony Cafe!!
What began as a non profit hosting weekly social meal events in 2016 has now broadened to encompass food drives, a community fresh organic vegetable garden, wellness and nutrition classes that empower all guests and participants to give themselves the gift of health and wellness.
I began as a community garden volunteer in February of this year. Trying to re-establish community relationships on the heels of the Covid pandemic truly tested the boundaries of this organization.
Through Harmony's efforts we have been able to provide fresh vegetables to those in need within the Patchogue area and surrounding communities.
This September we began the FEAST wellness and nutrition program which is designed to educate, support, and provide access to a variety of healthy foods.
Through the tremendous dedication and direction of Rosemarie McCarthy, Harmony Cafe has established itself as an outstanding non profit organization that continues to serve the needs of others with dignity as well as the belief that all people deserve the right to good health.
Harmony Café is an organization whose mission is to empower their guests/clients by providing prevention and wellness education with access to affordable healthy food, in a socially engaging environment, that builds healthy lives.
I volunteered with Harmony Cafés community garden pilot program this summer . It was a great experience. We were able to grow and harvest food which we then donated to community programs that distribute food to the food insecure.
Harmony Café is currently hosting a FEAST (Food Education Access Support Together.) program which promotes wellness through healthy foods and the power of human connection. I love being involved with this organization.
Harmony Cafés founder, Rose Marie McCarthy is a true champion of those marginalized in our communities. Rose is tireless in her efforts to harness volunteer and community support in bringing her vision of affordable healthy food to those in need.
Super cause very needed in our town here
I have gone to a number of thf fund raisers and also played music at the holiday parties
Food is good and the people wonderful
It’s a wonderful thing what these ladies do for people in need! Great job! Especially during the pandemic! ❤️
I follow thus group on FB since the pandemic and I am so impressed by the work they have done during these difficult times for the hungry in our community.
I've had the pleasure of volunteering for several Harmony Café lunch events and fundraisers. I love taking part in this wonderful organization's mission to fight hunger in the community, all while supporting local businesses and bringing people together. The events are always fun, have live music and promote friendships with new people. I think the elderly population especially benefits from the lively and social atmosphere. Additionally, the Café has provided food assistance to the community during the pandemic, a time when some have not been able to shop or provide for themselves or their family. It's amazing the amount of help a few dedicated people can provide to their community. I look forward to volunteering with Harmony Café in the future and I would love to see them open up a permanent location to serve the community.
I have volunteered a number of times for Harmony Cafe. The reception in the community is so positive and serves a population which might struggle with simple basic needs like food. The food prepared is always fresh and healthy and certainly appreciated by our guests. The concept of Harmony Cafe includes all and the mixture of folks enjoying a meal together is a blessing.
Harmony Cafe has been instrumental in the Covid response in our community, providing food to those in need. The leadership is inventive, creative and flexible.
My son, Tom Ryan and I have had the privilege of working with Harmony Cafe for some time. Tom is a musician on the autism spectrum and he entertains at their events and did an internet radio show benefit for them. Rosemary and June McCarthy are exceptional people who are completely dedicated to their mission of feeding everyone in need and who expertly lead a team of dedicated volunteers. The concept of pay what you can or pay it forward is humanity at it's finest. Harmony Cafe is nourishment for the body and spirit. Their events are spectacular, imaginative, wholesome and beautiful. Getting involved with or donating to Harmony Cafe promotes community in it's most beautiful essence.
Hi,
I've watched Harmony Cafe sprout from an idea to a wonderful reality. Even before the covid10 pandemic, Harmony Cafe met an often invisible need on Long Island---> helping to feed the hungry. Harmony Cafe has sponsored multiple events where people can come for lunch and pay whatever they can, or not pay, or volunteer to help. Meals are served in a great atmosphere, with good cheer for all. PLUS, there's live music! During covid19, Harmony Cafe was one of the FIRST local orgs to step up to help by gathering food for people, and even delivering it when they could. Right now, they are giving community members the opportunity to buy soup for others ( and themselves, if they want it!) through partnership with a farm. I've worked in the non-profit world for 30+ years, and I have to say this is one of my favorite community groups. The founder is fun and lovely and gracious and creative and makes this all happen- without benefit of a brick and mortar location. She has found a way to raise awareness of the hunger problem and DO something about it, engaging others along the way.
Harmony Cafe is a wonderful, nonprofit organization. They host events where you pay what you can in exchange for a delicious meal and some form of entertainment!
I've been to many of their events and thoroughly enjoyed each and every one of them! I've seen people I know from my neighborhood at these events and met many new people too!
It's a wonderful day out and everyone should go to meet new people and just have fun!
I am proud to be a volunteer/ board member of Harmony Cafe. During the start of the pandemics, we did a lot of work hosting food drives, grab and go food pickup and free food deliveries. It was challenging but so rewarding.
I am looking forward to our " In Harmony Toastgiving Dinner event" at the Toast Coffeehouse in Patchogue on 11/24, there are a lot more people in need this year because of the pandemic. Our new program , Buy one and Give one soup program, is going to help a lot of people. Farm to table soup, people need to have healthy food options, regardless of means.
I have been a volunteer for Harmony Cafe for a few years. It’s really gratifying to help others. This is a great non-profit organization where they offer healthy meals to the community in a beautiful setting- the place it’s usually nicely decorated and there is live music. Everyone is welcome. You may make a donation-pay what you can or just enjoy a wonderful meal for free. Rosemarie is doing an amazing job helping the community during these hard times.
Everyone is welcome at the Harmony Café - what a wonderful concept that is! Community members share a delicious, nutritious meal in pleasant surroundings and pay what they can afford. Some pay more, some pay less, some can't manage a payment at all. No worries and no fuss. Money is put in a container without anyone taking notice. Seating is at community tables and people spend their lunchtimes together talking with each other - something that without a Harmony Café might never have happened. Volunteers make this possible - another glorious aspect of this wonderful organization. If you have the opportunity, drop by and experience this phenomenon for yourself. But know this, it probably won't be your only visit!
Wonderful organization whose mission is to help others who need it and to encourage others to pay it forward. I attended an dinner event with great food and music. A warm, inviting atmosphere. A much needed way to help others.
I love volunteering at the Harmony Cafe! It gives me a chance to give back to my community. The cafe offers healthy and delicious food to all. No one is turned away because they cannot afford to pay. It’s a pay what you can concept. And the food is delicious!
Lynn H.
I know the heart of this organization. Everyone close by should check them out and support them as the fight food hunger in their community.
I have been volunteering with Harmony Cafe for the past three years. It is a pleasure working with Rose, the Director of Harmony Cafe her drive & tenacity is infectious. Harmony Cafe addresses the hunger issue in the community by providing nutritious meals to all in need. Whenever I volunteer at an event it’s always fun & rewarding.
I have been to many of Harmony Cafe's benefits. Rosemarie McCarthy and her team of volunteers work so hard to give everyone a chance to experience the great things they do. Rosemarie is constantly working to get to her goal of opening a cafe in Patchogue NY in the near future. She is kind and a beautiful soul. She is always giving back to the community, and the community gives back to her. I am looking forward to more benefits, but most of all seeing her dream come to fruition. Thank you!
Carole A. Labiento
Harmonycafe8 11/01/2023
Thank you for your kind words, I am glad the baby items are going to good use. Please sign up for our free thanksgiving dinner at the Toast Coffeehouse. If you can't dine in, you can pick up dinners to go.