01/21/2024
September 2012 is when I created this page; I just checked. We had just bought this building, nailed down a name, and were ready to start the first renovation step: demolition. We were ecstatic to begin sharing publicly how the Lord would lead us through every sledgehammer swing and renovation day we never thought would end. After ten months of friends coming to the rescue, praying for God to provide, and working till midnight most nights, we were ready to open Five80.
Excited was an understatement. Opening night, I think we had a line to the door for 4 hours straight, right Kim Day? I had never hurt so bad from standing and running back and forth behind the bar to ensure we could keep up. But it was the best feeling in the world. I remember a friend took a picture of the room since she knew I couldn't and texted me a comprehensive view of how many people showed up for our first night. It made me cry. I knew you would show up, Enid, and we could do this.
Now, 12 years later, we are sharing that our time of serving through Five80 is ending. Are we sad? Yes, but everything has a season, and this season was incredible. We have peace and know that God is doing amazing things in the ministry, and we can't wait to see what tomorrow holds.
To our friends in Enid and beyond, You have been so good to us. You welcomed us with open arms and continued showing your love daily. To the staff that has poured their blood, sweat, and tears into this place, you are appreciated and cherished, and we are forever grateful for you. You made this place a home for many, and I know your reward will come.
You learn a lot about your community when you have a coffee shop, and as much as we are ready to move to the next chapter, scrolling through 12 years of memories was emotional. It’s only letting me upload 80 pictures but I have about 300 that I want to share. So much life has happened in this building. You have allowed us to be a part of your weddings, showers, church services, birthdays, graduations, proms, bible studies, and, most importantly, meaningful and growing relationships in the Lord.
So what's next? Well, we aren't entirely sure. But our volunteers and staff won't be short of responsibilities between multi-week outreaches, grill walks, mission teams, kids outreach events, the homeless shelter, and a growing transitional housing program. As far as coffee, it might jump on wheels and join the Forgotten Ministries mobile fleet. Still, for now, we will be focusing on what God is doing every day, calling us to continually meet the needs of people and share the love of Jesus in a real and tangible way.
Our last day will be Friday, January 26th.
A few housekeeping things:
If you have already reserved Five80 for an event/meeting, please don't worry; you are still welcome to use the space. We will have it open for you.
Mercy House volunteers will continually pick up guests at Five80 every day at 4:30 to take to the shelter for a hot shower, meal, and a place to sleep.
