Situated on the confines of Grand Rapids Veterans Memorial Park is a historic grey stone building with green rooftop. Over the past decade, it’s been an ArtPrize venue for the non-profit HAS HEART.
“That pairs veterans with artists and then allows them to tell their stories, raise awareness and hopefully heal.”
Michael Hyacinthe is cofounder and Navy Seabee veteran. The City of Grand Rapids approached Hyacinthe asking if the space could be operated year-round.
“And so, we presented an opportunity to turn it into a coffee shop in addition to an art gallery that would continue to feature artwork created by veterans and the basement would be a studio that would be used to be a place for the veterans to come and create.”
Veterans would also be employed as baristas serving Madcap Coffee. It will serve as supplier and consultant. Veteran bakers will be invited to sell their goods.
A groundbreaking was held this week. The 600 square foot structure at 22 Sheldon Avenue NE will receive an $895,000 renovation with an extended outdoor patio. The city says 65 percent of the project is funded through historic, capital improvement and parks millage funds. Philanthropic dollars and donations will fund the rest. The HAS HEART Coffee Shop is scheduled to open Memorial Day Weekend.
