Kristine, inspired by her daughter Ella and the family dog Bella, recognized a critical need as her daughter approached the end of high school. Facing what many families know as “the cliff,” where options for young adults with disabilities become limited, she sought a solution. “Unless you have a waiver—which has a 21,000-person waitlist—it’s going to be challenging,” Kristine explained. “So we said we will have to create a job for her.”
During a visit to her sister in Connecticut, Kristine had a spark of inspiration, brought the idea back to Raleigh, and since July, the initiative has become a thriving venture. Every Monday and Tuesday, 18 people gather to make and bake chemical-free pet treats, each with a specific responsibility.
Deanna, one of the participants, shared her enthusiasm for her role: “Packaging is the specific thing that I really like. When we package it, I think about the people that we’re giving it to.” Fellow participant Brad expressed his joy in the baking process, saying, “I bake them, put them on the cookie sheet, and into the oven.”
American Legion Post 1 in Raleigh has been instrumental in providing the kitchen space the group needs to operate. Wayne Bostick of the American Legion stated, “We have the space, so I said let them come on in.” Their support extends beyond just physical space, fostering an environment of encouragement and collaboration.
Looking ahead, Kristine has ambitious growth plans. “If we can grow, we’re going to add on more participants. Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, we’re going to be baking five days a week and hiring a lot more people,” she shared.
Currently, Ella and Bella Pet Company’s products are available at special events, and the company is actively seeking retailers to carry them.
As the Ella and Bella Pet Company continues to grow, it brings hope and inspiration not only to its participants but also to the community, redefining expectations for individuals with disabilities and showcasing the power of inclusivity.
