PEABODY — The end of Breaking Grounds’ closure appears to be in sight, as the nonprofit café is on track to reopen in mid-July.
The coffee shop, which offers employment training to people with disabilities or autism, has been closed since May, when a fire in the building that houses Breaking Grounds caused extensive water damage to the café.
In an update posted to Northeast Arc’s website, the organization said the work of rebuilding the café is officially underway. Construction is set to include the installation of new ceilings and floors, with the goal of lightening up the space while “creating even more flexibility and comfort in seating.”
“The final look of the new café will include a long banquet to provide comfortable seating, chairs made from recycled bottles, and a counter-height table so you can better see the happenings on Main Street while sipping your favorite beverage,” the update read. “The selection of items was done to minimize lead times to ensure we can reopen as soon as possible.”
The organization, in the days following the fire, launched a fundraising campaign to try and recoup the costs of the blaze. The revenue lost by the closure is “of great concern,” the nonprofit said in a statement.
“Although we hope insurance can cover some of the losses, there are many program-related costs, including our commitment to maintain salaries and the additional support for the interns, that will not be covered at the café and across the organization,” said Northeast Arc President and CEO Jo Ann Simons.
When Breaking Grounds does reopen, the Main Street locale will offer a new look with “[the] same great coffee.”
