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GR non-profit hopes to donate one-million dog treats while empowering disabled bakers

Beer City Dog Biscuits van
WGVU Photo
Beer City Dog Biscuits van

During their “Good, Deed Good Dog” campaign, Beer City Dog Biscuits in Grand Rapids wants to donate treats to West Michigan animal shelters and food pantries. All the dog biscuits are baked by their staff of disabled Brew Bakers

“There is really nothing like this around.”

Beer City Dog Biscuit Co-Founder Leslie Hooker says the non-profit was started to provide training and jobs for her son and other intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals.

“There is a real shortage right now of vocational training sites.”

Their staff of what are called “Brew Bakers” measure, mix, bake and package the dog biscuits. Lauren and Melanie are on the team.

“It gives me a place to work I really like working with other people.”

“It’s fun here because people like to say hi to me when they come in through the door.”
The beer connection comes from Founders Brewery.After it’s used to make beer Dave Engbers says they donate their spent grain to mix into the biscuits.

“Our team is responsible for making beer and how much pride we have, you see the exact same pride in these Brew Bakers creating these dog biscuits.”

During the Good Deed Good Dog campaign, the bakery is offering 12 bag trays of biscuits for 50 dollars and after every sale they will donate a matching tray to a shelter, rescue or food bank.

“100 percent of the proceeds do go right back into our mission.”

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