Alberto's Story - Finding Community and Support at 541

Meet Alberto

When you step into 541 Eatery & Exchange, you’ll often find Alberto sitting at a table, greeting folks with a warm smile. As a long-time regular, Alberto has found more than just meals here - he’s discovered a true sense of community, care, and belonging.

How Alberto Found 541 Eatery & Exchange

Alberto’s journey to 541 began through a familiar friend, Ameriga. One day, while discussing a difficult situation with her neighbour, he mentioned that he was hungry. Ameriga immediately told him about 541, a unique pay-it-forward cafe in Hamilton offering affordable meals and a welcoming environment. She offered him a ride, and from the moment he walked in and ordered his first tuna salad sandwich, Alberto knew he had found something special.

“It didn’t take long for the 541 community to embrace me,” he says. “If I don’t come here, they’ll call and check in on me. Everybody tells me I have a beautiful smile.”

His friendship with Ameriga continues, and she's gained so much because he's in her life. On days when she's down, Alberto will send her positive posts on Instagram from motivational accounts that he follows.

“My relationship with Ameriga is a good friendship - she’s a beautiful person,” Alberto shares.

He is a firm believer in the power of positivity. He recommends a TED Talk about positive attitude, which he says speaks to the importance of maintaining your mindset.

"If you lose your [positive] attitude, you’ll lose everything," he says.

541’s Impact: More Than Just a Cafe

For Alberto, 541 is more than just a place to eat, it’s a space where he feels valued and supported.

“The people, the food. Everyone calls me by my name. They say, ‘Hi, Alberto!’ It feels good. When I come here, I feel good.”

This sense of belonging became even more evident during a challenging period. In December, Alberto was hospitalized with chronic pneumonia. His wallet and phone had been stolen, leaving him without a way to reach out. His friends at 541 grew concerned. His family had reached out to Ameriga, asking if she knew where he was. Ameriga took action and was preparing to fill out a missing persons report when they found out he was at the hospital. Once he recovered, he returned to 541, where he was welcomed with open arms.

Giving Back to the 541 Community

Despite facing hardships, Alberto believes in giving back.

“When I can, I try to donate. It’s not much, but I want to give back.”

541’s unique button program allows guests to contribute meals to others, creating a cycle of kindness and generosity that Alberto deeply values.

He also suggested that 541 host a laughter yoga session, a practice he follows on Instagram. You can check out some of the laughter yoga accounts he loves: @fundacionlluviadesonrisas and @regalaunjajaja.

Alberto’s Journey: From Venezuela to Hamilton

Alberto was born in Venezuela to Spanish parents, making him a citizen of both countries. Growing up, he remembers receiving his first smoke detector at age 10 through his father’s workplace, an experience that sparked a lifelong interest. Later in life, he began fixing fire alarms and continues to pursue job opportunities in this field here in Canada, though the path hasn’t been easy.

He also has a daughter who lives with his parents in Venezuela. She’s currently in school, and he hopes to reunite with her soon.

Alberto came to Canada with the hope of building a better life. At first, he secured an apartment in Hamilton, but financial struggles eventually led him to seek shelter support. With the help of a dedicated social worker, he was able to navigate the system, access resources, and begin the search for more stable housing. Currently, he’s staying at a shelter but hopes to find more permanent housing. Somewhere where he feels a strong sense of community.

Why 541 Eatery & Exchange Matters

When asked what he wants people to know about 541, Alberto’s answer is simple yet powerful:

“It’s a free meal if you don’t have money. You can come here, and you can eat. It’s good.”

For many individuals in Hamilton, 541 Eatery & Exchange is more than just a cafe - it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s through a warm meal, a friendly conversation, or a supportive network, 541 continues to be a place where people like Alberto can find dignity, care, and hope.

Visit 541 Eatery & Exchange

If you’re in Hamilton and looking for a way to support your community, consider visiting 541 Eatery & Exchange. Whether you buy a meal, donate buttons, or simply share this story, every action makes a difference.

Join us in creating a space where everyone, no matter their circumstances, can find a home away from home.