New coffee blend a hit for Down Syndrome Queensland

A new coffee blend designed to promote inclusion is helping raise money – and awareness – for Down Syndrome Queensland.

The DSQ Coffee Brew, created by Crema Coffee Garage, is the brainchild of Down Syndrome Queensland Community Engagement and Fundraising manager Michael Harrison.

Michael says the organic coffee combines Brazilian and Colombian beans, balanced by beans from regions in Uganda and Guatemala, to create a smooth, sweet blend with a nutty character.

“Like the inclusive world we strive to create, there is no bitterness and only positivity in each brew,” Michael says.

The idea for the blend was hatched after a café session during the DSQ program Latch On, which helps school-leavers develop skills for independence and employment.

“One day we had a cafe in the class and everyone was learning to make coffee,” Michael says.

“Then I was talking to a gentleman through the Now Business Network who works at Crema Coffee Garage, whose daughter also had Down Syndrome.”

That led to a partnership with Crema, who helped DSQ create their own special blend.

"Ultimately, our goal is to use this to create our own microbusiness and a coffee cart run by our community with Down Syndrome so we can create jobs, provide skills to gain employment and most of all independence, not to mention inclusion and awareness for Down Syndrome within the community," Michael says.

Timely launch

“October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month and we launched the coffee on October 1, which is International Coffee Day,” Michael says.

“Our ultimate goal is to turn it into a social enterprise and get a coffee cart where we can train them.”

Michael says the DSQ Brew is already proving popular, with several local MPs including it in gift hampers and a loyal following through online sales.

“The DSQ Brew is perfect for gifts, special occasions, staff reward and recognition programs, and client appreciation.

“It would also be a great addition to any corporate social responsibility program, or simply just a moment for you to enjoy, with each brew helping to make a difference to the lives of people with Down Syndrome and their families.”

DSQ Brew is available in a range of grinds. Find out more here.