History

Fall 2014

Nieda and Caterina meet for the first time, paired through IRIS' Cultural Companions program.

Spring 2018

We began selling Nieda’s baklava in student cafes on Yale’s campus.

Spring 2019

We launched the inaugural cohort  of the Havenly Fellowship. Over the course of six-months, three women completed paid work experience and adult education in preparation for careers in the food industry.

Fall 2019

Hala became our first fellow to transition into full-time work, earning $21 an hour as a baker at University of New Haven. She is now the primary earner in her family.

October 2019

We welcomed our second cohort of fellows, consisting of three women. From October to February, we held the second iteration of our fellowship within our temporary home, the Jewish Community Center of Greater New Haven.

Spring 2020

We moved into our own dedicated commercial kitchen and storefront for the first time.

May 2020

As part of our leadership program, our fellows began preparing and delivering meals to refugee, immigrant, and housing insecure families affected by the pandemic in New Haven. Between March and June of 2020, our fellows served over 5,000 meals through the COVID food relief program.

Summer 2020

We continue the food relief program while piloting a new menu of savory Middle Eastern dishes.

Spring 2021

We transition to a community café layout and menu, combining classics from our menu with authentic coffees and teas.