know.

Truly Great Coffee

At Capabilities, work is the core of our mission.  We believe that work, synonymous with effort, is essential to well being.  For over 60 years, Capabilities has helped people with barriers prepare, get and retain employment. ETCH represents our 2020 vision for employment services; an integrated, community based, social enterprise.

Our promise to you is an excellent cup of coffee or tea, with every visit.  Your impact is much greater.  With each purchase, you support:

• Job training, support and job creation specifically for individuals with disabilities and those recovering from substance abuse

• The opportunity for local entrepreneurs to showcase their talents, such as Tad’s Tasty Treats, and our featured artist

• Products that are regionally sourced by individuals with disabilities including Highland Chocolates, handmade pies by Special Touch bakery, a variety of our own menu selections prepared by Capabilities, and mighty leaf tea, who utilizes individuals with disabilities to package their teas for national distribution.

​

Have a product or person that you think might be a good fit for ETCH?  We’d love to hear your suggestions.  (Contact Us).

​

We hope you’ll love our products, support our mission and make a positive impact on the Elmira community. 

taste.

Introducing

gimme! Coffee

Elmira Tea and Coffee House is partnering with Gimme Coffee an Ithaca based specialty coffee roaster/retailer founded in 2000. By teaming with Gimme Coffee we will bring great coffee to our community, using practices that are sustainable through every step of the supply chain from farmer to customer.

care.

Why Capabilities got into Coffee.

Mission

To assist people with disabilities obtain their optimum occupational goals. 

We will create opportunities and environments that empower people with disabilities to choose, get, and keep the job of their choice.

History

Capabilities has been operating as a not-for-profit organization in Elmira, NY since 1955 and was incorporated in 1956. The idea came from the concern of community members who saw persons with disabilities not being employed due to impairments related to a disability.

The idea turned into reality when community members, such as those belonging to the Elmira Rotary Club, formed a work group to raise money, build a building, and create a program. Our mission has essentially been the same since the doors first opened.