Gathering in WeCo

Gather 256’s mission to create a space for the community and beyond

BY DAVID GONZALEZ I DIRECTOR, ECONOMIC INITIATIVES

Situated in the WeCo District of Downtown York, Gather256 is a cafe whose mission is to provide a place for the community to meet, celebrate, and engage. In talking with Chef and Owner, Sarah Cahill, it’s clear that focus of community is front and center to the business’s operations.

The sole-proprietor has her community and the one that has formed around this café to thank for the success of the space. “Formerly this café operated as I-ron-ic, where it was beloved and the previous owners, David and Steve, poured their hearts into the space and neighborhood. That’s what I love about the shop,” Sarah shares. “The community has already looked to this café as a gathering space and I wanted to build on what has been created.” Sarah is reviewing ways that the shop can improve from expanding its opening hours, menu, and catering options.

The café is positioned to offer something for everyone and grow the food scene in the WeCo District. From offering hot and cold beverage options, to a robust breakfast and lunch menu, and dessert options sure to satisfy any sweet tooth, Gather 256 is a great go-to spot for the weekday hustle and bustle or laid-back Saturdays. “We’re creating a space welcoming to families, friends, and collaboration,” Sarah highlights. “Our patio is open and has kids in mind. Parents can catch up with friends while their kids enjoy our sandbox or checkout the plants that fill the space.” Sarah’s call for collaboration includes welcoming artists to showcase their work in her space, hosting a plant studio in part of the second floor, and working with partners to support activities and events in WeCo.

As one of the newer Trail-Friendly Businesses through the York County Trail Towns Program, Sarah is committed to providing a space that helps cater to the recreational users who frequent the Heritage Rail Trail and partnering with like-minded businesses to continue the cultivation of the community as an outdoor recreational destination. “My family and I are active trail users and it has been great to see the trail grow further in popularity,” states Sarah. “We’ve frequented many of the businesses along the trail and are now excited to welcome users to our café. We are pleased to offer wi-fi, our restrooms, and a space that users can recharge.”

Gather256 | 256 W. Philadelphia Street, York, PA 17403 | 717.793.3258 | gather256.com

For more information about York County Trail Towns, resources, and a list of trail-friendly businesses, visit yorkcountytrailtowns.com