During hard times, it’s the small moments of joy that get you through, including the little things, like fresh, hot coffee in the morning. One new, local company is doing its part to bring that cup of joe to you—and a smile to your face—each day.
RAKO Coffee Roasters, based in Lorton, opened for business in late April. Sisters Lisa Gerben and Melissa Gerben are the masterminds behind the specialty coffee brand, which focuses on sustainably sourced, single-origin coffees and environmentally friendly roasting practices.
The company originally planned to open two cafes in Washington, DC this summer, but the opening dates have been delayed due to current COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, those who want to give the coffee a try can head online to pick out coffee from Sumatra, Guatemala, Burundi and Ethiopia. Currently, RAKO is offering free shipping to customers within the DMV, and deliveries include custom brew guides for customers to learn how to make the coffee taste its best at home.
The business is also donating 10% of all sales to Erik Bruner Yang’s Power of 10 initiative, which provides employment to laid-off restaurant workers and meals to first responders and community members affected by COVID-19. Additionally, a portion of each sale is going toward International Women’s Coffee Alliance.
For more information, visit rakocoffee.com.
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