Paneras to Sell ‘Pieces of Hope’ Next Week

WARREN, Ohio – Panera Bread bakery cafes operated by Covelli Enterprises will again sell  “Pieces of Hope” cookies next week as it observes Autism Awareness Month.

Beginning Monday and through April 17, the specially made cookies will be sold at Panera Bread cafes in the Mahoning Valley and in Hermitage, Pa., with 100% of the proceeds going to programs that help families in the area. Both the Rich Center for Autism at Youngstown State University and Potential Development will benefit  year.

“We feel very fortunate to be able to help the men and women who are doing such amazing work with these children,” Sam Covelli, president of Covelli Enterprises, said. “I have seen firsthand how impactful the work of the Rich Center and Potential Development is and how dedicated their staff is to improving the lives of children with autism.”

Throughout April, donations also will be collected in community cash  boxes at cash registers in the cafes. Over the past five years, the Pieces of Hope cookie campaign has raised more than $1 million in Covelli-owned Panera Bread stores, including $80,000 locally.

“We are thrilled to be a part of the Pieces of Hope Campaign to benefit Potential Development and the Rich Center for Autism.  This campaign will help both agencies to ensure that Mahoning Valley students with Autism achieve their greatest potential and lead an independent life,” said Paul Garchar, executive director of Potential Development School for Children with Autism.

“The Rich Center is proud to partner with Panera Bread and Covelli Enterprises once again. The annual support that we receive from Valley residents has always been overwhelming and makes it possible to provide year-round therapy, education, and support at no cost to local families,” Melanie Carfolo, executive director of the Rich Center, said.

Advance orders can be placed here.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.