Connexion Phoenix presents Tacita de Café program to Newport City Council

Giovanna Jensen, a community engagement specialist for the City of Newport, introduced Connexion Phoenix at the Dec. 1 council meeting and invited the group to explain a program called Tacita de Café.

Presenters said Tacita de Café provides a weekly, bilingual safe space where Latino community members gather for cultural activities, education and outreach focused on health, language and financial information. Daisy Canales described classes such as traditional embroidery and cultural arts, and said the program emphasizes mental‑health topics that have been difficult to discuss in the community, including suicide prevention and substance abuse. The group also organizes events such as a health fair that offered vaccines, blood‑pressure checks and record‑printing assistance, and supports meal distribution and family activities.

Councilors asked whether the group is a registered nonprofit and how it protects participant safety. Presenters said they now rely on word‑of‑mouth and direct contact rather than advertising public event locations on social media after an intimidation incident at a Know Your Rights meeting. Council members praised the outreach and encouraged Connexion Phoenix to apply for city funding; presenters said they would apply for nonprofit status and the city’s grant opportunities.

The presentation concluded with councilors offering to explore display and partnership ideas — including art exhibits and community‑wide events — to increase visibility and engagement.