Goodland, IN Welcomes Its First Play Café: The Harvest Hangout
Goodland, Indiana, is poised to introduce a novel community establishment with the announcement of The Harvest Hangout, the first play café in Newton County, co-owned by local residents Mirahida “Mira” Kindig and Zahira “Z” Montoya. The launch of this innovative venture is particularly timely, coinciding with the Town of Goodland’s efforts to revitalize its community through a Comprehensive Plan aimed at enhancing small-town life.
In a recent press release, Kindig and Montoya expressed their enthusiasm over the project, highlighting their personal ties to the community. “Goodland isn’t just where we live. It’s where we’re raising our families… and where we’ve dedicated ourselves to building a stronger, more connected community,” they stated. Their commitment underscores the importance of local business initiatives in fostering community spirit and connectivity.
The Harvest Hangout will be strategically located in the west portion of a renovated school building near the Community Center and Town Hall, just off U.S. Route 24. The town has pledged to modernize the space by implementing significant infrastructure updates, which include ensuring safety compliance and accessibility. A new parking lot is also being constructed to accommodate visitors, exemplifying the effective collaboration between local government and small businesses to enhance the community.
The café’s offerings aim to create a relaxed atmosphere where families can gather. It will serve a variety of light fare, specialty coffees, teas, and refreshing mocktails, providing a cozy environment for socializing. Importantly, the establishment will feature a separate indoor playground designed for children aged 12 and under, as well as a dedicated space for teenagers. This thoughtful design caters to families and builds an all-inclusive environment that encourages community interaction.
In addition to being a gathering place, The Harvest Hangout plans to host hands-on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) classes, which will not only offer educational value but also prioritize creativity and teamwork among children.
Kindig and Montoya, who are twin sisters and mothers, are passionate about giving back to the community that has significantly shaped their lives. Their involvement in local events, such as the annual Goodstock music festival, which benefits veterans in Jasper and Newton Counties, illustrates their commitment to enhancing community engagement beyond their business aspirations.
With renovations set to begin imminently, the co-owners are excited to share the development journey with the public. They have encouraged community members to stay informed through their website, The Harvest Hangout, where potential visitors can find updates, social media links, and exclusive promotions.
The launch of The Harvest Hangout represents not only a new business venture but also an investment in the community’s future, reflecting a broader trend of small towns seeking innovative solutions to social and economic challenges. This play café aims to be a cornerstone of community engagement and a model for similar initiatives across the region.
