Starting a small business has always been a dream of mine, and now I’m taking the first steps to make it a reality. With passion, hard work, and a clear vision, I’m building a local café in La Fonda a Puerto Rican restaurant in Spanish Harlem that will bring people together while continuing sharing my heritage through my baking and cooking. Like many aspiring entrepreneurs, I face the challenge of limited resources, but I believe that with the support of friends, family, and community, this dream can grow into something that not only supports my future but also makes a positive impacts on others.

My grandmother taught me all I know about the kitchen. My baking was a tribute to all the beautiful moments we shared through desserts. Her favorite ice cream was the Good Humor's Strawberry Shortcake Ice Cream Bar, so my best seller naturally is the Strawberry Shortcake Flan Cake that tastes just like it. She would send me downstairs so I could get two ice cream bars when no one was home (she wasn't allowed sweets), and we would eat them and talk about her days in Puerto Rico.

I was a chef in Puerto Rico for two years, and I've been baking now for three years in a beautiful town called Port Washington on Long Island. They have embraced me and given me the confidence to take the next step in opening my small business. I am able to open up Abuelita’s Dessert in Spanish Harlem Monday through Friday, 7 am to 3 pm, serving Puerto Rican/Caribbean desserts and Puerto Rican coffee. This will be much easier because I have full access to a kitchen, so I don't have to worry about those expenses that come with opening a restaurant. It has most of the equipment like ovens, stoves, sinks, etc.

I've had a couple of family tragedies that set me back a bit so I am here to humbly ask for donations. I have enough to cover the rent for at least six months but need to have equipment to really be fully functional and successful. I have purchased some things like a small freezer, large prep table, coffee machine, panini presser, bread machine, and a few others baking essentials, but I still need larger items like a commercial fridge, cake and dessert displays, POS system, and a few other things. Anything will help .

Thank you so much,

Abuelita's Desserts