MEET SANDRA HOWARD OF CARROLL COUNTY
Brass Hat Café, located in Carroll County, is much more then a dinner spot for residents such as Sandra Howard.
It’s a way to form fellowship with neighbors, give back to the community, and save on steep grocery costs.
Howard, 69, divorced, and a great-grandmother, has been going to Brass Hat Café when they first opened in 2017. Before the pandemic, people would dine inside and form lasting bonds with other guests.
“I used to dine inside with my son and enjoyed chit-chatting with other people while we were eating. It was a nice relaxing place, with a great atmosphere so we can enjoy each other’s fellowship,” said Howard.
Brass Hat Café differs from most soup kitchens. Instead of receiving a cold meal, all meals are cooked from scratch. Instead of simply being handed a tray of food, customers are asked about their day by staff, prayed for; and if customers are in need, they are given pantry or household items as a form of assistance. Customers who dine in could be homeless, a college student in financial need, or a worker who lives pay-check-to check. All are welcome to an inviting meal, and what makes this restaurant even more unique, is the deep bonds customers have developed for Brass Hat Café.
Howard appreciates Brass Hat Café so much, that she volunteers herself and her son to ring the bell during Christmas time. “I would ring the bell to help The Salvation Army out. My son and I helped ring the bell during Christmas time,” said Howard. “We both liked the experience a lot. Well, since I am getting older now, and my leg has been inspected by doctors, I didn’t do it this past year. I am hoping next year I can be a bell ringer.”
She also comes from a difficult background. Her divorce in 2008, and raising her kids came with struggles. She comes to Brass Hat Café, with her children, such as Resha Defour, to alleviate financial burdens with purchasing food. She also takes pride in giving back to The Salvation Army as often as she can.
“I support The Salvation Army in Carroll County because it’s needed around here. The Salvation Army provides residents with food, toys, and gifts around Christmas time for people in great need,” said Howard. “And I like to help as much as I can. I didn’t get to help when I was younger, in my early twenties and in my early 30s, because I was raising my children. I am happy to help out now at my current age of 69.”
There is love beyond Circumstance & There is love Beyond Empty Cupboards.
Support Brass Hat Cafe & The Carroll County Service Center.