Generous Winnipeggers' donation keeps local cafe's doors open

Bill Fugler, the owner of the Neighbourhood Bookstore and Cafe, has been worrying for the future of his local shop until a generous gift was given.

He opened the cafe in 2006 not knowing if it would really make it or not, but now he has become a staple in the community of Wolseley. However, for the last few years, the cafe has struggled because of a bylaw that requires them to have a grease trap in their kitchen. They tried to find a way around the bylaw but after many inspectors, court dates, and temporarily closing, they had finally resigned themselves to the fact that changes would need to be made. But then generous Winnipeggers stepped up and donated the grease trap the cafe needed and made sure it was installed immediately. 

"It was the most incredible display of efficiency and kindness that I've seen," Fugler stated. "I think every community needs a place like this. I think communities need places where people can get together and I think it's an important part of what makes a good place to live." 

Fugler does still have more court dates with the city scheduled throughout the rest of the year to resolve everything that has happened since the issue of the grease trap came up several years ago, as well as decisions of various fees that have ensued since the beginning of the problem. However, they will now be able to function normally as a friendly gathering place for local citizens. 

The Neighbourhood Bookstore and Cafe is located at 898 Westminster Ave, Winnipeg. 

 Here's the newly installed grease trap!