Mike Boguski, keyboardist for Canadian alt-country rockers Blue Rodeo performed a free one-hour set at the London Coffee House, bringing music and joy to the local community.
Boguski’s visit is part of Blue Rodeo’s 40th Anniversary tour, during which he has been stopping at outreach centres to offer solo performances. He played at the London Coffee House ahead of the band’s evening show at Canada Life Place.
The London Coffee House is a program of CMHA Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services and provides coffee and a place for social connection for people experiencing homelessness or those at risk of becoming homeless. Staff at the Coffee House help individuals with mental health and addiction challenges.
Crowd at London Coffe House concert (Theodore Ramharack XFM News)
“Housing is the most urgent need we see, followed closely by addictions,” said Krista Woodhouse, an Outreach Addictions Mental Health Worker at the Coffee House. “We make sure people have access to food, blankets, pillows, and other essentials, even for those living rough, because everyone deserves basic support.”
Jessica Carswell-John, manager with Peer Support Social Enterprise and the London Coffee House, said, “Events like this put a smile on everyone’s face and bring people together. Music and art give an added layer to community wellness that we work hard to create every day.”
Boguski said performing in spaces like the Coffee House lets him reach people who may not be able to afford a concert. “Even if someone cannot attend a show, they still deserve to hear music, and places like the London Coffee House make that possible. It is important for musicians to use their platform to highlight mental health and social issues.”
Blue Rodeo’s Mike Boguski (Theodore Ramharack XFM News)
Regular visitors praised the event and the staff. Henry Morrison, a longtime guest, said, “I like coming here because they welcome me and treat everyone like family, and they have known me for more than 30 years.”
For more information about the London Coffee House or to support its programs, visit CMHA Thames Valley’s website.
