Setback delays opening of planned Meals on Wheel drop-in cafe in Aldergrove

A planned drop-in cafe at the new home of Langley Meals On Wheels (MOW) in Aldergrove has suffered a setback.

On Monday, Oct. 3, Langley Meals On Wheels Services Society executive director Shannon Woykin described it as an “unexpected delay,” which saw work to renovate the former Milsean confectionery suddenly halted, just as it was nearing completion at Aldergrove Community Station House in the 2900-block of 272nd Street.

Woykin did not go into detail, other than indicating it was not a health issue.

While the society was originally hoping to have the cafe open by the end of October, “it might not be until December,” Woykin told the Langley Advance Times, depending on how quickly they can find someone able to finish the work.

Woykin issued a public invitation, to “any contractor who wants to give back to a charity,” to get in touch with Langley Meals On Wheels by calling 604-313-8074‬.

READ ALSO: VIDEO: An inside look at the new Meals On Wheels facility in Aldergrove

Despite the setback, preparations for the cafe are continuing, with the Sept. 19 hiring of chef Jessica Lemay, who has experience opening new dine-in businesses, and will be preparing meals for delivery to Meals On Wheels clients along with developing the menu for the new cafe.

“She is a pastry chef, she is a foodie,” Woykin enthused.

Once the renovations are completed and the necessary permits have been obtained, the cafe will operate as “walk-in, grab-and-go cafe” that will serve the meal of the day menu, along with a coffee bar offering cappuccinos and espressos.

READ ALSO: VIDEO: New Langley Meals on Wheels kitchen fires up the grill within days

Some ingredients will come from the vegetable garden beds recently installed out front by volunteers.

There are also plans for culinary teaching programs, allowing other service providers to run Food Safe programs, as well as teaching canning skills.

For more information about MOW, 604-533-1679 or email info@lmow.ca.