Waste Wise success story: Jam Hops and Jam Hope Cafe

Jam Hops, a children’s recreational facility in Ham Lake, established Jam Hope Café in 2024 to provide work experience for teens and adults with special needs. Upon opening their café, Jam Hope knew they wanted to promote sustainability in addition to accessibility. They submitted a grant application in April of 2024 for compostable products and bins to house their three streams of waste. 

The café replaced disposable plastic cups, lids, paper cups, plastic forks, and plastic spoons with compostable products. They also began composting their coffee grounds and food scraps from the bakery and smoothies. Since implementing organics recycling in their shop, they are now composting 54 gallons of organic material per week, or 1,390 pounds per year! 

“We are only open a few hours a day, so we don't go through a ton of product, but every little bit helps!” – Holly Oberg, Café Coordinator