Coffee Shop in Rochester Becomes Recovery Lifeline for Women

Coffee Connection, a café in Rochester, NY, is more than just a coffee shop—it’s a recovery hub for women overcoming addiction, incarceration, and trauma. Founded and led by Joy Bergfalk for 13 years, the shop provides employment, sober support, and emotional healing. Staff are not seen as clients but as friends and coworkers. Amanda, now the head roaster, joined in 2018 seeking recovery and has since helped other women in their journeys. Tamara, another team member, works in memory of her daughter who died from a fentanyl overdose. As Bergfalk prepares to retire in April, Alyssa Eisele, a former banker, is stepping in to continue the mission. To support Coffee Connection’s future, American author and radio host of Prairie Home Companion, Garrison Keillor, will headline a benefit performance at The Hochstein School. A longtime fan of the shop’s coffee, Keillor said he looks forward to supporting the women behind the brew. Learn more about Coffee Connection Presents: Garrison Keillor
at The Hochstein School on March 30th, 2025 from 7-9pm here.

Source: Rochester First