WILLIAMSVILLE, N.Y. (WKBW) — Sweet Jenny's in the Village of Williamsville is serving up more than sweet treats. The ice cream shop's "Good Neighbor Fund" is providing free ice cream to anyone facing financial hardship.
Owner Howard Cadmus said if someone can't afford ice cream or has to think twice about buying it, they'll get it for free. He believes ice cream just makes people feel better.
"It's about creating a moment to kind of escape from things the way that you would take a pause or a deep breath," Cadmus said.
The Good Neighbor Fund has helped laid-off workers, people on strike and most recently furloughed government employees.
"Every holiday, we open it up, either a day or two days before, to the public, and we say, if you're having trouble, like at Christmas time giving gifts, then you can come by," Cadmus said.
Sweet Jenny's has been operating its charity-based business model for 15 years. Customers can also donate to the fund, and those donations go to other community causes to help those in need.
"Help feed the homeless, we try to do locally," he said. "But also, there was a time when we tried with different schools for things that they needed. It really varies based on what the need is at that particular time."
Employee Jennifer Abra said Sweet Jenny's also offers free ice cream to all cancer survivors at any time, not just those facing financial hardship.
"It's very emotional, and not only survivors, but current patients that are coming from treatments and come right here knowing that we do this," she said.
Abra said something as simple as a scoop of ice cream can make a significant impact.
"There are tears and there are hugs, and I tell them to come back whenever they want," she said.
WATCH: Sweet Jenny’s 'Good Neighbor Fund' gives free ice cream to those in need
Cadmus said the Good Neighbor approach has inspired other businesses to adopt similar business models.
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