CafeSmart is an annual fundraising campaign, run by not-for-profit StreetSmart, that unites coffee roasters, cafes and coffee lovers around Australia to fight homelessness and support those at risk.
Every year, on Café Smart Day, participating coffee roasters and cafes donate $1 from every cup of coffee purchased to support StreetSmart’s vital work in assisting vulnerable individuals and families in need of food, shelter, and emergency relief.
StreetSmart was founded in 2003, with the aim of raising funds for essential grassroots organisations, combating homelessness at a local, community level, while understanding that its causes are systemic and multiple.
We have been part of CafeSmart since 2021 – and have been able to donate, in total, over $8,500. We have always admired how StreetSmart seeks out community organisations and services which are local to the areas where funds are raised – so that help can be particularised according to a region’s needs, and distributed by the people who know it best.
“Since 2011, CafeSmart has grown into a beloved annual event," says Liz Bayrak from the StreetSmart team. “The coffee community is already committed to making a positive impact across the supply chain, so turning everyday coffee rituals into opportunities to support grassroots homelessness charities was a perfect fit.”
“At StreetSmart, we're all about keeping things local. This means that a cafe and coffee lover in Melbourne collaborate to make a difference for people in need and charities in their local area. CafeSmart partners with small but mighty organisations that provide emergency aid, housing support, food relief, employment pathways, mental health services and much more, ensuring funds create real, lasting impact for people facing homelessness.”
Friday 7 August 2026 is CafeSmart Day, and Market Lane will be donating $1 from every drink purchased in any of our shops to the campaign. If you're in Melbourne/Naarm, visit one of our shops on the day and enjoy a delicious coffee for an important cause!
