The Joy Bus is a nonprofit organization whose sole purpose is to relieve the daily struggles of people with cancer by delivering a fresh and healthy meal with a friendly face. Our mission is to improve the lives of our patrons through good food and company. Founded in 2011 by award-winning chef, Jennifer Caraway, The Joy Bus was named in honor of her dear friend Joy. Joy struggled with the painful and debilitating side effects of ovarian cancer to which she ultimately succumbed. Her grace, drive, and determination inspire us to help those who fight that same battle.
Many cancer patients are left to fend for themselves during this turning point in their lives. The Joy Bus eases that burden by providing healthy meals specified to meet our patrons’ needs, delivered by volunteers who are often cancer survivors themselves.
The Joy Bus Diner™ is a 100% nonprofit restaurant that’s helping make our Valley a tastier, happier place, one meal at a time. Serving hearty, made-to-order breakfast and lunch fare every Thursday – Sunday from 7am – 2pm, every cent earned will be used to support The Joy Bus, a local charity that’s been bringing chef-inspired meals and caring conversations to cancer patients Valley-wide.
Founded and operated by Jennifer Caraway, The Joy Bus Diner™ is the culmination of her five-plus year effort to improve the lives of local cancer patients through the power of a hand delivered meal and face-to-face interaction. Inspired by a friend named Joy who had been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, Caraway started dropping off home-cooked dinners and chatting with local cancer patients in need of a little good cheer. Over time it expanded into Valley-wide non-profit organization named The Joy Bus, which collects and cooks donated food for volunteers to deliver to patients around the Valley in need of a friendly face and an open ear. Most important, Caraway says, she’s been embraced by the local food community, with Crooked Sky Farms and others donating fresh food.