Breadcoin Initiative: Nourishing Tampa’s Homeless and Small Businesses Alike

In a bid to support Tampa’s homeless population, Breadcoin has introduced a unique form of currency that circulates downtown, providing individuals with the means to purchase meals at participating restaurants without any cost to the food vendors. June Brown, the homeless liaison with the Tampa Downtown Partnership, has embraced this initiative, using Breadcoin to treat over 30 people to coffee at Portico Cafe on a recent Wednesday morning.

Originating in Washington, D.C., in 2016, Breadcoin aims to reduce the stigma associated with homelessness and hunger. The program emphasizes the importance of allowing individuals to choose their meals, promoting a sense of dignity that differs from traditional sack lunches and group feedings. By distributing actual minted coins valued at $2.50 each, the Breadcoin program encourages those working with the homeless, volunteers, churches, and individuals to give them out instead of cash.

The innovative aspect of the Breadcoin program lies in its support for local businesses. Participating restaurants and food trucks agree to accept the coins, and the nonprofit Breadcoin program is sustained by recurring donations and corporate gifts. Monthly collections from participating establishments are fully reimbursed, injecting funds into downtown businesses or food trucks without asking for a handout.

Michael Doyle, a co-founder of the local Breadcoin program, emphasizes its effectiveness for small businesses, particularly those where every sale is crucial. For instance, Portico Cafe, the first of three local businesses to join the program, reported a substantial increase in revenue since its inception in February. The cafe’s operations manager, Mindi Vaughan, noted that Breadcoin allows them to serve the city in a unique way while positively impacting their bottom line.

With the success of Breadcoin in Tampa, the program is set to expand to more restaurants, with a focus on recruiting food truck vendors. Homeless advocates appreciate the program’s single-purpose nature, as the coins can only be used for food, addressing concerns about potential misuse.

Breadcoin’s introduction in Tampa has proven to be a valuable initiative, not only providing meals to the homeless but also supporting local businesses and fostering a sense of dignity among those in need.