Beloved West Bend Icon Needs Help to Rebuild the Retaining Wall and Serve the Community

The Shoppe formerly Toucans has long been a cherished spot in the heart of West Bend. But since its purchase in January by owner Yomi Verdin, the building has faced a cascade of unexpected maintenance issues that have stretched both timelines and budgets to the breaking point.

Among the costly hurdles:

  • A broken water line just weeks after reopening, leading to a full emergency restoration
  • A complete rebranding effort to breathe new life into the location
  • Installation of a new air conditioning unit to keep kitchen team members safe and comfortable
  • Ongoing construction at Washington and Main Street disrupting guest access and foot traffic
  • And now, the most urgent issue yet: a dangerously deteriorating retaining wall behind the building still carrying an additional  balance of $13,000 well over the original budget and on top already thousands invested into it.

What began as a passion project full of promise has quickly become a costly uphill battle. Safety upgrades like fencing have added another $6,000 to an already overstretched repair budget, pushing total costs near $19,000.

Despite every effort to weather these storms without asking for help, Yomi has been moved by the words and support of her guests some of whom have watched the building evolve for decades. That encouragement gave her the courage to launch a Spotfund campaign for those who want to be part of saving this local treasure.

 Donate at: http://spot.fund/blgdxc7sc

“When I took over the former Toucans, a beloved staple in our community, I did it with heart and hope,” Yomi shared. “I wasn’t just buying a business; I was investing in a place that holds meaning for generations of locals.”

The Shoppe has become known again for its Premium Frozen Custard, hot made-to-order grill favorites, and warm community spirit. It’s more than a restaurant it’s a place where memories are made.

If the fundraiser exceeds its goal, any extra funds will be donated to St. Frances Cabrini Parish, which has shown Yomi unwavering support during these tough times.

“Their kindness and faith have helped carry me through these challenges,” she said. “I can’t tithe what I don’t have, but with your help, we can make a real difference together.”

This is more than a renovation. It’s a community coming together to keep a little piece of West Bend history thriving.

Content reposted from Washington County Daily News