Ericka L. Stewart is a Philadelphia civic leader recently elected as President of East Mount Airy Neighbors, serving on the Citizens Police Oversight Commission, , and Board Member of Germantown Avenue Crisis Ministry. Stewart is a housing justice advocate, Central High School Class 263 graduate, and Auxiliary Member of Colonel Charles Young Post 682.
A nonprofit leader and board member with expertise in community governance, crisis response, and equitable development. Her work aligns grassroots engagement with institutional accountability to deliver measurable outcomes in housing stability, public safety, and economic empowerment.
Kidd & Co. is an experience not to be missed.
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Okay, here's a short ode to Philadelphia:
In Philly's heart, where history thrives,
A city of brotherly love survives.
From cobblestone streets to Liberty's Bell,
A tale of freedom, the stories tell.
Community strong, a spirit so bold,
In every neighborhood, stories unfold.
From cheesesteaks sizzling to art's vibrant hue,
Philadelphia, our ode to you
KIDD & CO: A Love Letter to Philly
Born from a deep-rooted love for Philadelphia and its vibrant culture, KIDD & CO is a celebration of the city's rich history, diverse community, and innovative spirit.
Inspired by years of serving the Philadelphia community, Founder Ericka Stewart has curated a space that reflects the city's unique character. From the carefully crafted menu to the thoughtfully selected merchandise, every detail is a nod to Philly's past, present, and future.
7201 Germantown Avenue:A Legacy of Community and Economic Empowerment
C-11691 - Street - South Side Mt. Airy Avenue across Germantown Avenue
Historic Roots: The Odd Fellows Lodge
The building at 7201 Germantown Avenue has long been a cornerstone of community life in Northwest Philadelphia. Constructed in 1868 as Mt. Airy Odd Fellows Lodge #235, it served as a hub for social, civic, and mutual aid activities.
The Independent Order of Odd Fellows, a fraternal organization dedicated to Friendship, Love, and Truth, provided resources and support to its members and the broader neighborhood, hosting meetings, social gatherings, and charitable programs.
The Lodge’s presence cemented the site as a place where community cohesion, economic support, and shared purpose flourished — values that continue to resonate today.
A Modern Reimagining: The 3rd Space Model
In the 21st century, the building has been revitalized by Chef Ericka L. Stewart, a recognized food rescue chef and community entrepreneur, as Kidd & Co, a neighborhood café and “third space” for all. Stewart’s vision transforms the historic lodge into a 21st-century community hub, combining culinary innovation with social and economic empowerment.
The Third Space Model emphasizes:
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Economic development: Providing local employment opportunities, workforce training, and a platform for Black-owned and local businesses.
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Food justice and sustainability: Rescuing surplus food to provide healthy meals, reduce waste, and address food insecurity in the neighborhood.
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Community connection: Offering coworking hours, family dinners, educational workshops, and cultural events to foster belonging and engagement.
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Cultural enrichment: Showcasing local artists and creators, and promoting spaces for conversation, creativity, and shared learning.
Through this model, Stewart bridges historic legacy and modern need, honoring the building’s past as a place of mutual aid while driving economic empowerment, social cohesion, and cultural vitality in Northwest Philadelphia.
Community and Economic Impact
7201 Germantown Avenue, under Stewart’s leadership, exemplifies the power of community-centered development:
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Sustains locally owned businesses and cultivates Black entrepreneurship.
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Creates living-wage jobs and workforce training opportunities.
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Strengthens neighborhood networks and civic engagement.
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Provides a model for revitalizing historic spaces in ways that respect heritage while advancing modern community needs.
This project is more than a café — it is a platform for empowerment, ensuring that historic spaces continue to serve the community not just as landmarks, but as engines for local development, inclusion, and sustainability.
Elevate Your Everyday
I'm always looking for new and exciting opportunities.
Let's connect.
@kidd_and.co
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