Community Rallies Behind Autistic Coffee Shop Co-Owner After Tip Jar Theft

Customers and local leaders showed an outpouring of support for Michael Coyne after $20 was stolen from his tip jar.

Apr. 8, 2026 at 7:20pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus scene of a cozy coffee shop interior, with warm pools of light and color reflecting off the surfaces, conveying a sense of community and acceptance.The vibrant community support for an autistic coffee shop co-owner shines a light on the importance of inclusive spaces.Warwick Today

When 30-year-old Michael Coyne, who has autism and ADHD, discovered $20 had been stolen from the tip jar at his family's coffee shop in Warwick, Rhode Island, the local community came together to show their support. Customers and even the mayor donated over $1,400 in tips, more than the café had taken at the register that day, and three regular police officers made Michael a new, more secure tip jar.

Why it matters

The story highlights the power of community support and acceptance for individuals with autism and other disabilities, and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life. It also showcases the importance of creating safe and welcoming spaces for all members of the community.

The details

On March 4, Michael Coyne, the co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse, discovered that $20 had been stolen from his tip jar, leaving just $2 behind. Michael, who has autism and ADHD, was understandably upset. When his mother and co-owner, Sheila Coyne, posted a video about the incident on social media, the local community responded with an outpouring of support. Customers, both regulars and new visitors, came to the café and left tips, with one woman even handing Sheila a $100 bill. In total, Michael received over $1,400 in tips, more than the café had taken at the register that day. Three regular police officers also made Michael a new, more secure tip jar with a lid on top.

  • On March 4, Michael Coyne discovered the $20 theft from his tip jar.
  • On March 5, Sheila Coyne posted a video about the incident on social media.

The players

Michael Coyne

The 30-year-old co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse in Warwick, Rhode Island, who has autism and ADHD.

Sheila Coyne

The co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse and Michael's mother.

Frank Picozzi

The mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island.

Red White and Brew Coffeehouse

A local coffee shop in Warwick, Rhode Island, co-owned by Michael and Sheila Coyne.

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What they’re saying

“Michael learned a lesson yesterday. He was sad, he was disappointed, and I think it felt worse because we feel like this is a safe space here in our cafe, and it's really homey, and I think it felt like more of a violation.”

— Sheila Coyne, Co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse

“If you're in the area please stop in, it would mean the world to Michael and his co-workers.”

— Frank Picozzi, Mayor of Warwick, Rhode Island

“A lady who came in, she got a latte and handed me a $100 bill. She said she has a 15-year-old son who has autism.”

— Michael Coyne, Co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse

“We are blown away by this community. We shared the story of Mike's disappointment the other day to show that some days are hard. What it turned into was nothing short of amazing.”

— Sheila Coyne, Co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse

“As always, be kind”

— Sheila Coyne, Co-owner of Red White and Brew Coffeehouse

What’s next

The Coynes plan to use the additional tips to invest in security upgrades for the coffee shop, ensuring a safer environment for Michael and all their customers.

The takeaway

This story demonstrates the power of community support and acceptance for individuals with disabilities. The outpouring of kindness and generosity from the Warwick community not only helped to restore Michael's faith in humanity but also highlighted the importance of creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all members of society.