Over $27,000 raised to support the owner’s medical expenses

ATASCADERO — Malibu Brew, the beloved coffee shop in Atascadero owned by Paul and Lakhena Say, is facing new challenges due to health issues. Unfortunately, Paul, a Marine veteran, has recently been diagnosed with lung cancer, which will pose financial difficulties for the family. 

The couple has been an integral part of the community, actively supporting local events and organizations for many years. Over time, they have witnessed the children of Atascadero grow from middle school to high school and even return from work or college to share their stories and experiences at Malibu Brew.

“They’ve loved on us for years and years, and now it’s time for us to love on them,” said family friend Katie Hoium, “It’s our home away from home.”

Hoium and her family live in Shandon and get their daily caffeine fix at Malibu Brew. 

“We started going to Malibu Brew shortly after they opened, and we’ve watched David and Alicia grow up, and we’ve become practically family with them,” Hoium told Paso Robles Press/Atascadero News. 

She tells us that Lakhena is currently managing the business with her two children, David and Alicia, but there may be occasions when Paul’s health necessitates temporary closures. Any changes to the shop’s hours will be posted to keep customers informed, and understanding and patience from the community are greatly appreciated.

In an effort to support this family-owned business during this challenging time, the community is encouraged to visit Malibu Brew for their coffee, tea, bagels, smoothies, ice cream, or any other treat they desire. 

“Go by and get coffee,” suggests Hoium.

Hoium and what she refers to as “the Malibu crew” have brainstormed how to best support the Say family. One idea is their GoFundMe page, which has garnered over $27,000. There are more plans to create additional fundraisers to support the family and help pay for medical expenses. Some people have even dropped donations off at the coffee house or provided assistance in other ways, such as helping understand the medical world. 

“I’ve been amazed by them and their kindness,” said Hoium, referring to everyone who has shown their support for Paul.

Malibu Brew stands as the morning coffee spot where you can chat with local law enforcement and where the local middle school and high school kids meet for lunch and after school for socializing. This is an opportunity to reciprocate the love and warmth that the remarkable Say family has always shown to the community. Let’s come together and support them during this trying period.

“They touch the community,” Hoium says of Malibu Brew’s standing in Atascadero.

Currently, Malibu Brew aims to operate from 6:30 a.m. to noon, Monday through Friday, and from 7 a.m. to noon on weekends. However, occasional closures may occur.

You can find more information and support the family here gofund.me/afa63cc3

Feature Image: Paul Say, co-owner of Malibu Brew coffee shop, is shown with (from left) wife Lakhena, daughter Alicia, and son David. Community members have raised over $27,000 to help the family with medical expenses for Paul, who has been diagnosed with lung cancer. Contributed Photo