Gratitude Coffee

It's hard to believe that almost three years ago I met with Jen Hackney, owner of the Gratitude coffee truck, when she was serving coffee out of her bright blue truck parked on Par Street in College Park. 

Since then, Jenny has become known in the 32804 zip code as a favorite stop to enjoy not just coffee, but a daily dose of positivity. I've never seen her in a bad mood, even when I knew she was struggling with the day-to-day grind of being a business owner, or even when she was dealing with the loss of a family member and the loss of a beloved pet.  Jenny exemplifies gratitude and grace more than most. In a time when we all have something to gripe about, Jenny reminds us of what to be thankful for, even if in that moment, it's just a great cup of coffee.

This week she will be opening the doors to her very own shop, a lifelong dream that is finally coming to fruition.  

In addition to her coffee offerings, the shop is actually a used book store, so as you wait for your drink you just might find a cheap book to pick up to add to your stack.  Never one to talk-the-talk but not walk-the-walk, Jenny as a strong advocate for women supporting other women, will be selling goods from local makers in the community.  Little Byrd Candle Co, Hell Scent Aromatherapy, and Soul Food Soap will all be on the shelves along with coffee related items like mugs and homewares.  There is also local art on display by Shauna Jackson. 

Her drink menu can accommodate any type of hot or iced beverage you may be thirsty for, and if you don't like coffee, she makes a delicious chai latte, and her hippie tea is quite refreshing. She also has several dairy alternatives. 

The new location is just steps from her truck's parking spot on the main drag in College Park (1307 Edgewater Drive) next door to the Firefly Salon. Her hours will be similar to her truck, Monday - Friday 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Doors should be open this week after her final inspection by the city so make sure you are following her instagram @gratitudecoffee to stay in the know.