SMITHTOWN — When Jennifer Morales opened SweetAbility Bakery on Main Street three weeks ago, she hoped the community would embrace her mission-driven business. What she didn't expect was a viral TikTok video, a line around the block, and selling out of every baked good by noon — every single day.
"I've been crying happy tears for two weeks straight," Morales said. "The support has been absolutely overwhelming."
SweetAbility employs adults with developmental disabilities, providing meaningful employment in a field that typically offers few opportunities. The bakery currently has 12 employees, eight of whom have autism, Down syndrome, or other developmental disabilities.
"These aren't just jobs — they're careers. Our team members are trained bakers, not charity cases. And honestly? They make the best cookies I've ever had."
— Jennifer Morales, Owner
From Dream to Reality
Morales, a former special education teacher in the Smithtown School District, spent five years planning the bakery after watching her students struggle to find employment after graduation.
"The statistics are heartbreaking," she explained. "Over 80% of adults with developmental disabilities are unemployed. These are capable, eager individuals who just need the right environment and support."
The TikTok That Changed Everything
The bakery's viral moment came when local mom Amanda Rodriguez filmed her son Michael — a SweetAbility employee — proudly presenting a tray of fresh cinnamon rolls he had made. The 45-second video has now been viewed over 8 million times.
"My son has never had a job before," Rodriguez said in the video. "He's 24 years old, and this is the first time he's come home excited to go back to work the next day."
How to Support SweetAbility
SweetAbility is located at 123 Main Street in Smithtown. They're open Tuesday through Saturday, 7 AM until sold out (usually noon). Online ordering for local pickup launches next month.
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