SEARCH GROUNDS
Bringing Good Coffee to Bad Places

Good Coffee in Bad Places: Cuban Coffee Kits, A Game-Changer for First Responders

Cuban coffee deployment kit from Search Grounds, displayed in front of disaster rubble with Moka pot, cafecito cups, spoons, and branded gear.
The Search Grounds Cuban Coffee Kit—field-ready, responder-built, and designed for the first 72 hours of deployment.

As a retired Fire Captain, USAR Medical/Water rescue specialist, and disaster management professional, I’ve navigated through difficult challenges that test the limits of human endurance. From searing heat in remote areas to long hours in the heart of disaster zones, I’ve witnessed firsthand what it takes for first responders to rise to the occasion. Yet, I discovered something profound during my journey: amid the harshest trials, a simple moment of comfort—a delightful shot of “cafecito”—can ignite the spirit and inspire resilience.

This ritual transcends caffeine; it’s about unity, tradition, and finding your grounding in moments of chaos. Throughout my years, I’ve experienced how coffee fosters teamwork during critical incidents, creating bonds that uplift and strengthen those involved. However, the challenge has always been accessing quality “cafecito” far from a proper kitchen, or even a “Sedano’s” or “ventanita.” This is why I crafted Cuban Coffee Kits, specifically designed with the needs of first responders in mind.

The Impact of Coffee in Crisis

For emergency responders, moments of rest are few and far between. In the first 72 hours after deployment, resources are often strained, and every choice bears significance. In the midst of this pressure, coffee emerges as a powerful connector. It transforms a brief pause into a shared experience—fostering camaraderie and providing grounding moments during individual assignments.

Cuban coffee shines brightly for its bold, rich flavor and energizing qualities—the perfect fuel to empower individuals pushing through extreme challenges. It symbolizes resilience, reflecting the spirit of the dedicated teams it supports.

The Kits: Designed for Adventurers

I envisioned coffee kits that seamlessly combine quality with convenience, especially for those in austere surroundings. Our kits contain everything needed to craft authentic Cuban coffee, no matter how remote the location: a portable coffee maker, electric stove (hotplate), mixing spoon, tablespoon, mixing/serving bowl, 3/4oz Cuban coffee cups, 1 sugar storage container (for daily use), and 1 coffee storage container (for daily use). We’ve carefully included ample portions of our signature “Search Grounds Coffee,” enough to brew three times daily for three days (72 hours) and capture that beloved Cuban flavor. Each kit is ingeniously organized in a patent-pending foam insert designed for durability and compactness, perfectly suited for the rigors of deployment.

We tested these kits in conditions reflective of their intended use—disaster zones, training exercises, and base camps. The outcome? A product that not only performs but excels under pressure, ensuring first responders experience a touch of familiarity even in the most daunting environments.

Why Choose Cuban Coffee?

Cuban coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a transformative experience. Crafted with premium, dark-roasted Search Grounds Coffee and sugar expertly blended into a creamy “espumita,” it offers comfort while invigorating the spirit. It’s a cup of courage, embodying the strength of those who enjoy it.

In the field, it serves as a touchstone, reminding responders of home. This small but powerful comfort boosts morale, especially when it matters most. Plus, it’s quick to prepare—ideal for those moments when every second is critical.

Bringing Good Coffee to Bad Places

Our mission is clear: Bringing Good Coffee to Bad Places. With our Cuban coffee kits, we’re not merely providing a product—we’re sharing a moment of normalcy, warmth, and connection for those dedicated to serving on the front lines.

So, whether you’re part of a search and rescue team, coordinating emergency response, or working long hours in a base camp, this kit is designed for you. It’s a reminder that even in the most challenging situations, a spark of comfort can create lasting impact.

Stay strong, stay inspired, and let’s Bring Good Coffee to Bad Places.


If you’re ready to equip your team with my Cuban coffee kits, visit www.searchgrounds.com and explore how we’re revolutionizing Cuban Coffee in the field. Together, we can face challenges—one “cafecito” at a time.

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