Over the turbulent course of the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals in the community have stepped forward to help Tarrant Area Food Bank (TAFB)’s emergency distribution efforts. This support came in the form of dedicated volunteers, increased advocacy, and the generosity of fundraising. One popular way of raising money among peers, it turns out, is everyone’s favorite treat: chocolate!
When Tarrant Area Food Bank cancelled its annual signature fundraiser Empty Bowls in March due to COVID-19, chocolatier Josh Rogers sold thousands of chocolates with proceeds benefiting TAFB. In April, 12 year old twins Claire and Catherine started their company C.C. Treats making chocolate turtles whose went to TAFB. Their efforts, along with countless other grassroots efforts to raise money, contributed thousands of dollars toward TAFB’s COVID-19 hunger relief efforts.
Over the summer, 13 year old Sydney Ratner decided to put her love of baking to good use. This young baker creates cakes, cupcakes, buntlets, and cookies, all homemade and made to order. The sweetest part? All of her proceeds are then donated to Tarrant Area Food Bank.
“I know many people are suffering and hungry, and I wanted to use my passion for baking as an outlet to help others,” said Sydney.
Sydney began baking for a purpose in the five weeks before she began her 8th grade school year. During that time, she created the brand Syd’s Sweets and built a Facebook page to advertise her skills and delicious options, as well as post updates of how much money she had raised so far.
This young businesswoman was responsible for taking orders from her Facebook page, entering them in a spreadsheet, baking the items, collecting payment, and coordinating delivery time. It’s no wonder that such a passionate and talented teen raised as much as she did: $5,000! Since one dollar donations to TAFB are the equivalent of five meals, Sydney’s contributions made possible 25,000 meals for North Texans.
“This has been a fantastic summer project for her where she is bringing joy through her sweets while feeding the hungry,” said Jennifer Ratner, Sydney’s mother. “To say we are proud of her is an understatement!”
Tarrant Area Food Bank leadership is thrilled that more and more people are interested in being part of the solution to hunger, especially young people and those in the food industry.
Julie Butner, President and CEO of Tarrant Area Food Bank, said, “We have a giving community; it is refreshing to see our young community members interested in doing something meaningful to help others in need! Thank you to Sydney!”
If you want to make an impact by fundraising with a team, create a virtual food drive page or make a gift to Tarrant Area Food Bank today.
