Sorry for reposting, I don't know how to edit the other one. So I will delete it, please ignore if this is an eyesore.

UPDATE: 08/15/2024 5:47PM EST
I have created him a GoFundMe and will link it here. Again there is no obligation to help this man, kindness is all that is necessary. HERE: Fundraiser by Jeramiaha Walker : Support Dwayne and Family (Home Stretch Cafe) (gofundme.com)

Hello, my fellow Redditors and Louisville residents, I’m just posting this to bring awareness to what happened this morning and I feel compelled to bring attention to this sweet man’s business. This morning, if you drove past the Federal Building you may have noticed firetrucks and a lot of people standing outside. Come to find out the reason why this all occurred is because there was a water pipe burst in the basement.

Homestretch Cafe has served people at the federal building for over 30 years. The owner Dwayne has battled post-Covid to keep it running. From frequent conversations, I have learned he operates on very slim margins and I can confidently say he is a man of principle. Despite all the difficulties, he feels an obligation to take care of the young men/women who get processed through MEPS daily, as well, as those that are employed in the building. Between rising costs and a small business loan he applied for to keep things afloat, the last thing this gentle soul needed was a water line busting in his freezer and destroying all his food.

From what I know about his business arrangement GSA provides the space, but beyond that, they are hands-off and will not assist in recouping any losses, despite it being their possible negligence that led to the burst. From what I understand (I need to gather more details) he’s lost $3,000 in food and that’s not counting the money lost from him not being able to operate.

He does have insurance but his margins are already so thin that waiting on insurance to pay will likely be the nail in the coffin. He doesn't make much and supports his workers and mission first, I am confident enough to say that he is by no means a rich man or getting rich.

I witnessed this gentle giant cry because this may be the straw that breaks this camel's back. It’s truly disheartening to see this, a man who has given so much of his life to serve others possibly be taken out like this. He's the kind of soul that if you don't have the money he will let you slide, forgot your wallet? He will create a tab for you. From the photos he displays proudly in his cafe, he's given to others and paid his respects to the community he serves. He truly puts the word "service" in the service industry.

Surely some people have met this man and can share a positive experience they’ve had. 30 years is a very long time, he's been doing this longer than I have been alive.

I’m thinking you start a GoFundMe, but I wanted to get the news out there first. I’ve tried to take photos to show evidence and the aftermath (an empty freezer and trashed food). Maybe I can get this on the news? I just really hate to see such a selfless and kind person get destroyed like this. Life can truly be so cruel and I understand it isn't meant to be fair, but maybe we can try to make a difference.