Jim & Patty’s Coffee, a staple in the Portland coffee scene since 2002, is seeking public support to navigate severe financial difficulties. This appeal follows a challenging period exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent passing of co-founder Jim Roberts in 2023.
Jim and Patty Roberts’ journey in the coffee industry began in 1976 with their first establishment, The Coffee Man. This venture evolved into Coffee People in 1983, eventually expanding to 25 locations in the Portland area and several in Eugene. They also pioneered Motor Moka in 1990, one of the nation’s earliest espresso drive-throughs. After selling their stakes, they later returned to coffee with the founding of Jim & Patty’s Coffee.
Currently, Patty Roberts has launched a GoFundMe campaign to garner financial assistance. The fundraising effort aims to address significant debts accrued during the pandemic, increasing operational costs, and the impact of Patty’s shift in focus to caregiving during Jim’s final years. The GoFundMe page details their financial strain, stating, “We have accumulated significant debt since COVID, and rising business costs, combined with Patty’s focus on Jim’s care, have placed us in a precarious situation.”
The campaign highlights the enduring vision of Jim Roberts, with Patty now actively managing the business. It warns that without intervention, the coffee shop may face closure. The goal is to raise $250,000 to ease financial pressures and enable necessary operational adjustments.
In addition to the online fundraiser, Jim & Patty’s Coffee has revised its operating hours. The new schedule is from 6 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekdays and 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. on weekends.
The coffee shop operates two locations: one on Southwest Canyon Road in Beaverton and another on Northeast Fremont Street in Portland. The location on Northwest Miller Road is under different ownership, as noted on the GoFundMe page.