COLUMBIA: Coffee Shops Shine Bright Amid Hurricane Helene’s Impact
As the winds settled and Hurricane Helene passed through, the sunny and warm days that followed brought a little bit of normalcy back to Columbia, SC. With a high quickly reaching near 85 degrees Fahrenheit, local coffee shops became the heartbeat of the community, providing not just caffeine but also comfort and connection.
In the wake of widespread power outages across Richland and Lexington counties, places like Azalea Coffee Bar turned into cozy havens. With hot drinks flowing, Wi-Fi buzzing, and power for charging devices, families, students, and neighbors flocked to these heated environments.
Gathering at Local Coffee Shops
At Piecewise Coffee Co., owner Zach Kirby found his shops bustling with patrons looking for a cozy spot to work, recharge, and just relax during the chaos. “We had someone come in and say, ‘Thank you so much for being open,’ because they had a job interview on Friday, they did it here and they got it,” Kirby shared, highlighting the crucial role these coffee spots played during the crisis.
Long-time staples of Columbia, these coffee shops not only serve a rich cup of brew but also have a unique place in residents’ hearts. On a typical day, they’d serve as a favorite meeting point, but now, they were providing an essential service by keeping people connected and comfortable.
Weathering the Storm
“To be honest, the storm caught us a little off guard,” admitted Nick Hauser from Indah Coffee on Sumter Street. He emphasized the importance of safety for his team, reminding them that it was okay to prioritize family and well-being. Meanwhile, other establishments like Brickhouse Gourmet Coffee and Tea Co. decided to take a breather, focusing on their staff’s safety and needs first. “We were closed on Friday so that they could focus on family, safety, and everything else,” said owner Akera Sellers.
As doors reopened, the rush was on. Brittany Koester, owner of Azalea Coffee Bar, exclaimed, “We were extremely busy. We ended up being busier than we would have been had there been a home football game!” Patrons were ready to settle in, many looking to work for hours while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere that only coffee can provide.
Community Connection
While the coffee breaks were a necessary escape for many, they also sparked a sense of unity among local business owners. Kirby noted the owners’ strong relationships, proving that even during challenging times, local businesses can come together. “We’re checking in with each other—’When are you opening? Are you safe?'”
This spirit of unity extended beyond just coffee shops. Local eateries have joined forces to support hurricane relief efforts. Brickhouse and Drip, along with other restaurants, organized a drive for food and essential goods, showing that they are not only in the business of feeding bellies but also caring for communities.
Healthy Brews and Healing
As each of these coffee shops slowly returned to their new normal, they provided a vital service that went beyond just coffee. With charging stations and communal areas, they allowed residents to recharge not just their phones but their spirits as well. “Coffee shops are our community, and it really is evident when you have something like this happen,” Koester remarked, illustrating the integral role these places have in people’s lives, especially when facing adversity.
The power of connection was evident, with patrons exchanging stories, laughter, and warmth amidst the uncertainty of the storm’s aftermath. They reminded each other that deep down, in times like these, community is everything. “In the chaos of this weekend, people needed something normal to make themselves feel good,” Kirby added.
In a city known for its rich coffee culture, it’s heartening to see how these local businesses have stepped up during hard times, proving once again that Columbia’s coffee shops are much more than just places to grab a drink—they’re essential community hubs, ready to support, comfort, and brew a little hope during life’s storms.
