Owners of the Old Milwaukee Café & Dessert Company on Tacoma’s 6th Avenue, Pat and Chad Kerth, have come up with a unique (and tasty) way to push back against President Trump’s executive actions targeting immigrants and refugees.
All February long, the husband and wife team are selling frosted, cat-shaped shortbread cookies modeled after the hats protesters wore during January’s nationwide Women’s March. The couple invites diners to pay whatever they can/want to for a cookie, and intend to donate all proceeds to Tacoma Community House at the end of the month.
The Kerths hadn’t known about Tacoma Community House until a friend recently told them about our work with immigrants and refugees. Given the rise in anti-immigrant rhetoric and hate crimes over the past few months, the owners feel we are a fitting organization to kick off what will be a monthly fundraiser to help out different local groups.
As of February 10th, the couple raised $900 from individuals donating anywhere from $1 to $100 for a single cookie. Pat says next month’s sales will go to Tacoma’s YWCA, though she hasn’t settled on a group for April.
Friends and customers took to Facebook to praise the cookie project, noting the Kerths’ history of philanthropy and leadership within Tacoma.
“Both of you are pillars of the community,” one user wrote, “what you are doing is just one more example of your compassion and amazing hearts!”
Others couldn’t help but use the moment to praise the restaurant’s exceptional breakfasts—and Chad’s special egg salad.
While the Kerths have won countless fans with their homey dishes and generous portions over the past 20 years, they are exceptional for bringing their personal values of justice and social equality to their business model.
“I’m adamant that people know where we stand for people’s rights,” Pat said, showing off her NOH8 bracelet. “We’re doing this because we choose love, not ridiculousness.”
