(WSVN) – A South Florida family-owned business has a great opportunity to provide special needs youth, one snack at a time. Karen Hansel tells us more in today’s 7 Spotlight.
When you’re craving a quick snack, forget about chips and take a bite of something that serves a special purpose.
Rishi Patel: “I sell Rishi Snacks with my friends, mom and dad.”
This is Rishi, a 21-year-old with special needs. He is also the inspiration for Rishi Snacks, a trail mix-style treat made with traditional Indian flavors.
His parents came up with the idea after realizing that their son needed something to do and look forward to every day.
Vijay Patel, Rishi’s father: “From the time Rishi was an adult and a teenager, we were always thinking about what his purpose would be.”
When Rishi’s parents realized there was a lack of job opportunities for their son and others with special needs, they decided to create the opportunity they were looking for. This included family recipes.
Manisha Patel, Rishi’s mother: “My husband, Vijay, and I are like, ‘Oh, we feel like something could work out.'”
Seeing Rishi help in the kitchen, they realize that he can do many tasks by himself.
That’s when they came up with the idea of seriously involving their son.
Manisha Patel: “As you know, the company run by Rishi and his friends can do most of their work in monitored areas.”
Rishi Snacks was launched in February last year and comes in five flavors.
Manisha said Rishi was excited to see everything happen.
Manisha Patel: “When this whole thing happened, he was like, ‘I’m going to the kitchen,’ and his name was all over the bag. And like he was, you know what? , I could see him smiling, and he said, “I enjoy my job.” ”
Each week, Rishi and his classmates work in a commercial kitchen where they sort ingredients, mix snacks, and prepare them for sale.
Manisha Patel: “When you wake up in the morning and say, “Okay, today I have a kitchen,” or “Today I’m going to Doral to sell,” Rishi has a purpose, a purpose to do.”
The family partnered with Rishi’s school to allow other students to help in the kitchen. It’s a creative way to help children learn life skills so they can become more independent.
Vijay Patel: “Rishi is out in the community and he’s not just making snacks with his friends. He has a mission and he understands what his role is.”
Manisha said this has given Rishi and his friends a special purpose in life, which has brought great joy to the whole family.
Manisha Patel: “Every time we do this, whether it’s something as simple as coming into the kitchen or going out into the community, it’s amazing. will tell you.”
And it provides a huge opportunity for the special needs community and a delicious snack for the rest of us.
Karen Hensel, 7News.
Rishi Snacks can be found at several grocery stores and coffee shops throughout South Florida. Click here for more information.
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