Coffee for Soldiers sends joe from Q.C. overseas

In a program called Coffee for Soldiers, the owner of a Queen Creek coffee shop is donating a taste and smell of home with hot cups of joe.

Ongoing for two years, Coffee for Soldiers was created as a way to support the local troops stationed in Afghanistan and Iraq. Since its inception, more than 185 pounds of premium coffee have been sent overseas.

“I do it to let the troops know people are thinking about them, and that people care,” Rich Aroma Coffee Co. owner Dave Rich said.

A placard from the Family Readiness Group, a support group for Army families, hangs on the wall in the shop, thanking those who have contributed. Beneath the placard is a small donation box asking customers to buy a soldier a cup of coffee.

Every three to four months, after contributions have accumulated, Rich doubles the amount to be sent overseas in the form of ground coffee.

“There’s that saying,” Rich said, “that military coffee is so thick and strong you can stand a spoon in it.”

Therefore he sends the darker Colombian, French and houseblend roasts.

Rich is working with the Army National Guard, which aids in shipping.

An active soldier and regular at Rich Aroma Coffee, David Berry, connected Rich with the Guard just before being sent to Iraq in 2005.

Rich told of e-mails from Berry saying he missed the short rides to the shop, but was happy to have the coffee as a reminder of home.

“Hearing he was coming back and seeing him walk through the door was nice,” Rich said, regarding Berry’s return to the Valley.

Coffee for Soldiers was inspired by a similar program Rich came across while visiting a coffee bar in California. He appreciated the concept and wanted to incorporate a donation program in Arizona.

“I have a special place in my heart for them,” Rich said of the troops. “No matter what their beliefs are, they’re putting their life on the line, they’re sacrificing everything and that’s the best way I can show my appreciation right now.”

Donations may be made in person at Rich Aroma Coffee Co., 23670 S. Power Road (at Chandler Heights Road), or online at www.richaromacoffeeco.com.