INDIANAPOLIS — John Hobelman wants to make sure no one spends Christmas Day alone.
That's why he's opening the doors of his coffee, co-working and event venue, called Neidhammer Coffee Co., on the near east side of Indianapolis from noon to 3 p.m. on Christmas. He's offering free donuts, coffee and love to everyone.
"The idea of a recent widow or widower or maybe a recent single parent that doesn't have their children for the first time. It feels like nobody cares about them being alone, really rough," Hobelman said.
"We have had as many as 250 and had a Santa drop by and drop gifts off. Musicians spontaneously show up and just start playing Christmas songs, sharing the joy and spirit of Christmas Day," Hobelman said.
Hobelman said creating a space for others gives him purpose.
"What makes me a 'Best Me' is when I invest in others and draw people into the community," Hobelman said.
The event on Christmas Day is free, and everyone is welcome.
The company set up a GoFundMe account for people who would like to support the effort with a financial donation.
For the past 4 years, hundreds of customers have walked through its doors on Christmas Day to grab a free doughnut, coffee, and a good conversation.
"It's Christmas spirit. Nobody's alone. Everyone needs family for Christmas. There's one central theme, whether you have a family with you or not anyone can create some family intentionally. If you're by yourself, find someone who is by themselves and create some family," said Hobelman.
Last year, because of the pandemic, they had to host a drive-through event instead. This year they are back open, and the only thing they ask customers to bring is their holiday cheer.
"Just knowing that someone cares about them, even if they come out or not can be enough to lift someone's spirit," said Hobelman.
Customers said a coffee shop is a perfect place to host an event like this because a hot cup of coffee and a delicious doughnut bring people together.
"It's comfort. It's like a warm hug from your neighborhood," said customer Wendy Carson.
That idea of community is what brought Wendy Carson. She moved to Indianapolis from Arkansas 20 years ago and doesn't have any local family nearby. She said going to the coffee shop gives her an opportunity to get to know her neighbors.
"It means I'm not just at home sitting in front of the TV. I'm out being social. Especially after the last two years. It's nice to get out and be social again, see people and be able to interact with them. We missed this a lot," said Carson.
Hobelman said he doesn't mind spending Christmas Day serving customers at the shop. He said this tradition reminds him of his childhood.
"Growing up, we had a family culture of finding people who didn't have anywhere to go. Thanksgiving and Christmas we always had strangers at our house," said Hobelman.
And because of that, he will always be home for the holidays.
Neidhammer Coffee Co. is located at 2104 E. Washington St.