Grandmothers Baking for a Better Future

Dear Hearts of Gold Community,

Today, we write to you with a mix of gratitude, resilience, and hope as we share the latest chapter in the journey of D’Ellas Bakery.

On June 19, one of the bakery’s ovens exploded due to a gas leak. Thankfully, the two women working at the time suffered only first-degree burns and have recovered well. They also received psychological support from the foundation’s psychologist throughout their recovery. As a result of the explosion, we had to leave our rented location and move the bakery’s operations back to the foundation. While this was a real setback, it also became a moment when we felt, once again, the love and support of our community, not only through donations, but through something just as meaningful: orders.

While the women rested and recovered, the Hearts of Gold team stepped into the kitchen, baking the orders that came in to help keep the business going during this difficult transition.

Where we are now

Today, D’Ellas Bakery is operating from the foundation on a made-to-order basis. We are actively seeking contracts with hospitals and restaurants to create the stable, reliable income needed to sustain the jobs this project has created. This project has always been about more than baking. It is about restoring confidence, creating opportunity, and reminding women that they are capable of transforming their lives. This setback has not changed that mission. If anything, it has reminded us how much this community shows up, again and again, for these women.

If you have the opportunity to continue supporting this project (through an order, a donation, a shared post, or simply a word of encouragement) we warmly invite you to do so. Every bit of support helps these women rebuild, stay empowered, and move forward.

Thank you for being present. Thank you for believing in these women. Thank you for being part of the Hearts of Gold family.

With gratitude and hope,

Maria José