Beyond the Brew: Helping Colombian Coffee Farmers Recover from Recent Earthquakes
What makes a truly exceptional cup of coffee? For Johanna Porras-Ramirez, co-owner of Rey Sol Coffee Roasters, the secret ingredient isn’t just the bean—it’s love. Located at 140 Morris Ave. in Morristown, Rey Sol isn’t just another café; it is a bridge between the bustling streets of New Jersey and the lush, mountainous landscapes of Balboa, Colombia.
For six generations, the Ramirez family has cultivated approximately 500 acres of prime farmland in Colombia. However, this legacy of passion was recently put to the test when the region was struck by disaster.
The Devastating Impact of Recent Earthquakes
The tranquility of Balboa, a close-knit community of 6,000 people, was shattered on August 10. A powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake ripped through the Risaralda region, leaving a trail of destruction. According to the USGS (United States Geological Survey), seismic events of this magnitude can cause catastrophic damage to infrastructure, especially in mountainous rural areas.
In Balboa, the toll was heavy: an estimated 600 homes were damaged. While the Colombian government provided aid to major cities, the rural farmers—the very heart of the coffee industry—were largely overlooked. “The people here were already struggling, and now, whatever they had is gone,” explains Porras-Ramirez.
A Mission of Hope: More Than Just Coffee
Refusing to stand by while their hometown suffered, Johanna, her husband Arley Ramirez, and their daughters, Linda and Natalie, launched a GoFundMe campaign to provide basic necessities. For the Ramirez family, this is more than charity; it is a duty to the people who make their business possible.
The response has been overwhelming. With nearly $3,500 raised and a warehouse overflowing with supplies, the mission has now shifted to logistics. The team is currently seeking funds for a 40-foot shipping container to transport these life-saving goods to the ports of Colombia and eventually through the rugged mountain roads to Balboa.
How You Can Help
If you want to support the recovery efforts following these recent earthquakes, Rey Sol is accepting the following donations at their café:
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- Non-perishable food and toiletries.
- Hygiene products and first-aid kits.
- Blankets and flashlights.
- Clothing for children, adults, and seniors.
For those preferring monetary contributions: $25 can provide a heavy-duty tarp to protect a damaged home, while $100 can provide an emergency tent for a family that has lost everything.
The Art of the Perfect Roast
Despite the hardship, the passion for coffee remains ignited. As the biggest harvest of the year approaches, Rey Sol is preparing a special crop timed for Thanksgiving. Their process is a masterclass in quality:
- Cultivation: Grown in micro-labs on the family farm in Colombia.
- Processing: Beans are picked, soaked, dried, peeled, and packed.
- Roasting: Green beans are shipped to Plainfield and then roasted in small batches (13-14 minutes) at the Ridgewood store.
Pro Tip from the Experts: Johanna strongly advises coffee aficionados to never buy pre-ground coffee. To ensure maximum freshness, always buy whole beans and grind them right before brewing.
Growing in Morristown
While focusing on relief efforts, Rey Sol is also expanding. The Morristown store is currently doubling its space to better serve the community near the M Station office development. Visitors can enjoy a welcoming atmosphere with fresh Colombian baked goods and coffee served with a deep sense of purpose.
Visit Rey Sol Coffee:
Daily from 9 am to 5 pm. Parking is available behind the building via Olyphant Place. Come for the coffee, stay for the cause.
