Hugs Cafe in McKinney: Empowering Adults with Disabilities Through Culinary Arts

Every Monday at Hugs Cafe in McKinney, the aroma of freshly prepared peach chutney fills the air as employees diligently fill jam jars, ice cookies, and prepare boxes for catering deliveries.

"Walking into Hugs Cafe and witnessing each person truly living their purpose is an incredibly beautiful experience," shared Lauren Smith, Executive Director of Hugs Cafe, Inc.

This social enterprise nonprofit is dedicated to employing and training adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities, providing them with meaningful opportunities in the culinary field.

"Working here feels like being part of a family because we're all very close," said Ben Jennings, a Hugs Cafe employee, as he chopped parsley. "And when customers enjoy the food, it makes your day even better!"

Hugs Cafe is among the more than 3,200 local charities participating in North Texas Giving Day, an annual event organized by the Communities Foundation of Texas. In 2024, this initiative raised over $70 million, benefiting numerous nonprofits across the region.

"It's overwhelming," said Rebecca Babin, Senior Director of North Texas Giving Day. "With over 3,200 nonprofits, deciding where to give can be challenging, and the need is greater this year than we've seen in many years."

Babin noted that many nonprofits are facing funding cuts, making events like North Texas Giving Day crucial for their sustainability. "We learned that more than half the nonprofits in our community are struggling this year more than ever, and they have lost funding that they otherwise would have had," she explained. "That's why North Texas Giving Day is so important...so that these organizations can continue to do the great work that they do every day."

Hugs Cafe relies on donations from North Texas Giving Day to sustain its mission of inclusion. The nonprofit currently employs more than 50 people and has plans to open a Dallas location, which would double the number of employees who benefit.

"It is the people without disabilities who are truly learning the most. They are learning about people's potential and what is possible," Smith said. "Everyone needs purpose in this world. It is not something people aspire to sit at home every day and never have their phone ring, or never ask to be needed. To be utilizing your skills and interest, to be giving to something bigger than yourself, is what life is about."

North Texas Giving Day is the largest regional philanthropic event in the country. This year's event culminates on Thursday, September 18, 2025, but the donation window is open now.

For those interested in supporting Hugs Cafe and other local nonprofits, now is the time to make a difference.