All you've got to do is be willing. The program emphasizes goal setting as a way to empower its guests, says Bean. And we hold them to their goals. The conditions of acceptance to an alternative cafe are often demanding. At Inspiration Cafe in Chicago, participants must not be active substance abusers.
Meals are mandatory.
So are support groups and life skills classes. Inspiration Cafe is not really about getting a meal. Earl Garrett was hooked from the moment he walked into Inspiration Cafe. Homeless and eating at a soup line, Garrett began attending Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous meetings in the cafe. His counselor suggested he apply for meals at Inspiration.