Pay it Forward
“Pay It Forward at The Grumpy Cook is about helping people without judgement or stigma. Whether it’s buying someone a breakfast, hot drink or a meal bag to cook at home, every donation stays right here in Hastings supporting local people who may be having a tough time.”
Our Mission
“Our mission is simple — create a café where everyone feels welcome, while quietly supporting the community around us. We believe good food, kindness and human connection can make a real difference. Every coffee, breakfast and donated meal helps us continue fighting food poverty in a more dignified way.”
Join the Movement
“Every meal, coffee or Pay It Forward donation helps somebody locally who may be struggling. It’s a simple idea built around kindness, dignity and community — because nobody should feel embarrassed about needing a little help sometimes.”
Spread the Love
Spread the Love “Small acts of kindness can make a big difference. Whether you donate a breakfast, share our mission or simply support the café, you’re helping us build a stronger, more connected community here in Hastings.”
Support Our Café
Your contribution helps us serve delicious food and support local initiatives. Every donation makes a difference.
Common Questions
Get answers about our Pay It Forward programme
What is the Pay It Forward programme?
At The Grumpy Cook, Pay It Forward is a simple idea with a big impact. Customers can choose to buy a meal, drink, or food bag for someone else in the community who may be struggling. No forms. No referrals. No judgement. Just people helping people.
How can I participate?
You can Pay It Forward in the café or online through our website. Choose a meal, breakfast, hot drink, or one of our “Meals to Cook at Home” bags and we’ll make sure it reaches someone who needs it.
Who benefits from this initiative?
Anyone finding things a bit tough. That could be a family struggling with rising costs, someone feeling isolated, or a person simply needing a warm meal and a friendly face. Our aim is to provide support in a normal café environment where everyone is treated the same.
Are there any limits to my donation?
Not at all. Whether it’s one coffee or several family meal bags, every contribution helps. Small acts of kindness add up quickly when a community gets behind something.
How is the programme funded?
The programme is powered by the community. Customers, local businesses, and supporters help keep it going through Pay It Forward purchases and donations. Every meal funded goes directly back into helping people here in Hastings.
Can I donate food items?
Yes. We welcome donations of food and ingredients that can help support our Pay It Forward meals. If you’re unsure what’s useful, just pop in and have a chat with us first so we can make the best use of what’s donated.
How are recipients chosen?
There’s no complicated process. People can discreetly claim available meals or food bags through our café or website. We believe support should be simple, stigma free, and available to anyone having a difficult time.
What if I can't donate right now?
That’s absolutely fine. Sharing our posts, telling people about the programme, or simply supporting the café with a coffee or meal all helps us continue the work we do in the community.
Can I volunteer for this programme?
Yes. From helping in the café to supporting community projects and events, we’re always happy to hear from people who want to make a difference locally. Volunteering can also be a great way to meet people and build confidence.
How often does the programme run?
Every single day. Pay It Forward is part of what we do all year round at The Grumpy Cook, helping provide meals, food bags, and support whenever the community needs it.