Manasota BUDS reaps harvest of Pineapple Kitchen's special event

Both skills and memories are made at Pineapple Kitchen on Lena Road. 

Lakewood Ranch’s Stacy Quaid learned to craft slices of salami into the likeness of a rose, and Sarasota’s Rachel Crauwels learned how to ice a cupcake so it looks like a bunny butt, something that still makes her giggle. 

Both women are involved with the local nonprofit Manasota BUDS (Bringing Up Down Syndrome) — Crauwels because she has Down syndrome and Quaid because her daughter Ella has Down syndrome. 

Crauwels and Quaid have attended cupcake and charcuterie workshops at Pineapple Kitchen that were set up by Manasota BUDS. On Sept. 13, they returned as volunteers for the group. 

Jenny and Mike Schenk, owners of Pineapple Kitchen, hosted a Harvest Open House and free tasting event. Samples, such as the apple fritters, could be purchased and brought home to bake. 

A portion of the proceeds will benefit Manasota BUDS, which provides services and social activities to children and adults with Down syndrome in Manatee and Sarasota counties. 

Jenny Schenk said they host some type of community event once a quarter. Each event benefits a local nonprofit. Past recipients include Feeding Empty Little Tummies and Big Brothers Big Sisters.