Jeff Hanselmann at a bread making class in Italy where the idea for offering local classes was formed. Photo: Courtesy
Frannie’s Mini Donuts in downtown Sanford has received a $20,000 Amex Shop Small grant from American Express and Main Street America.
Known for its scratch-made mini donuts, breakfast sandwiches served on homemade bread, specialty espresso drinks, and welcoming community gathering space, Frannie’s continues to grow its mission of bringing people together through food and connection.
The bakery, operated by the Hanselmann family at 913 Main St., plans to use the funding to purchase the equipment and supplies needed to launch community bread-baking classes designed to teach neighbors how to bake bread at home for their families, friends, and neighbors. Participants will leave with both the knowledge and the tools necessary to continue baking independently.
Beyond the classroom, Frannie’s hopes to foster lasting community connections through bread making. Class alumni will stay connected through social media to share challenges, successes, recipes, and encouragement. Participants will also have opportunities to reunite for community baking events benefiting local food pantries, helping strengthen relationships and nourish neighbors through the shared experience of baking bread together.
Community members interested in participating in a class are encouraged to follow Frannie’s Mini Donuts on Facebook and Instagram, where class sign-ups and additional details will be announced in the coming weeks. Information will also be available soon at www.franniesminidonuts.com.
For those who would rather enjoy the finished products than bake them, Frannie’s welcomes customers to stop by the shop at 913 Main St. in Sanford, open Thursday through Sunday from 7am to 12pm.
The Amex Shop Small Grant program was launched through a partnership between American Express and Main Street America to support small businesses across the country. This year, more than 500 businesses received grants through the program.
Jennifer Skyler, chief corporate affairs officer for American Express, said the program is intended to support small businesses and their role in local communities. Erin Barnes, president and CEO of Main Street America, said the grants are designed to help small businesses expand operations, invest in improvements, and develop new offerings.
For more information about the grant program, visit https://mainstreet.org/about/partner-collaborations/amex-shop-small-grant-program
The post Frannie’s Mini Donuts Plans Community Baking Classes with Grant Funding appeared first on Sanford Springvale News.
