Frequently Asked Questions

The South End Children's Cafe has been open since November 2, 2015.

The South End Children's Cafe is located at 33 Rensselaer Street Albany, NY 12202 (Reopening 12/24). If you need assistance regarding parking, please contact Shaletha Peppers at (518) 816-3099.

The South End Children's Cafe is open Monday - Friday for dinner. Children join us from a variety of schools throughout the city of Albany. When the children arrive, they may get homework help from student volunteers, as well as teachers and other school personnel who volunteer at the Children's Cafe. After homework is finished, the children may participate in enrichment classes like dance, theater, and science. They can also create art or help with cooking and preparing the dining room for dinner. At 5:30pm the children, staff and volunteers.

Take a closer look at our program:

3:00 to 4:15
Children (ages 5-14) arrive at the Children’s Cafe and are greeted by staff and volunteers with a healthy snack and activities. Children receive 1:1 homework help.

4:15 to 5:30
Children go on a local outing. Others walk to a park or stay at the Children’s Cafe for enrichment activities.

5:30 to 6:00
Everyone sits down together for a meal, which includes green salad, a balanced dinner, and fresh fruit. The “littles” (children ages 5-7) love to serve dessert! Children are picked up to go home after dinner.

6:00 to 7:30
Children may stay for additional programs offered by the Children's Cafe or partner organizations. After-dinner programs include special clubs, cooking classes, sports programs, and more.

The South End Children's Cafe looks like a small cafe, allowing children to enjoy dinner in a welcoming and inviting setting. The children participate in preparing the meals, passing out dessert, set up and clean up. Community is on our Menu!

Absolutely! We are in need of food items and gift cards. If you are interested in hosting a food drive, please contact Shaletha at (518) 816-3099. Thank you!

YOU are such an important ingredient. Like and share our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram to get the word out, visit our website often for updates, consider hosting a fundraiser, donate to the Children's Cafe or volunteer..

Complete this form to enroll in the South End Children’s Cafe program. We currently have a waiting list, but we will add your application to it and contact you as soon as we have an opening. Thank you for your patience.