New lease on life extends to others,
as The Sweetest Gift dessert bar opens in Sydney
On June 5, when Patricia Scheetz opens Sydney’s first pop-up dessert bar staffed by transplant recipients and people with chronic illness, a dream will come true.
Herself a multiple organ transplant recipient who has endured a myriad of health complications including being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at a young age which led to kidney failure and losing sight in one eye, Patricia remains determined to use the precious gifts she has received to help herself and others.
Around 80 percent of 300 transplant recipients and people with chronic illness surveyed by The Sweetest Gift work casually or not at all due to unavoidable health needs. A lack of workplace understanding and flexibility of hours is considered one of the biggest barriers to employment.
It was while recovering from surgery that Patricia tried her hand at baking and discovered a knack for producing perfect macarons and other desserts. This ultimately saw her compete for the title of Australia’s dessert queen on Zumbo’s Just Desserts three years ago.
She is now a qualified pastry chef and her goal of turning a hobby into a career is a step closer. Her dream to help others will be realised through the grand opening of The Sweetest Gift Pop-Up.
Initially staffed by volunteers, the Sweetest Gift aims to attract strong bookings to generate steady returns. This will give many people who have been unable to hold down a regular job due to their health, a chance for permanent positions, potentially for the first time in years.
The Sweetest Gift pop-up dessert bar is open for bookings on Wednesdays from 5pm to 10pm, from 5th June 2019, by prior bookings. All proceeds go to raise funds to find a permanent location.
In addition to bookings, The Sweetest Gift will be available for takeaway treats from 3pm! Pop in and spoil your colleagues to ward off those afternoon cravings.
It pops up at City Tattersall’s Club, in conjunction with private chef hire company Chefin, who have kindly donated a space to help get the ball rolling on this delicious and remarkable enterprise.
When: Every Wednesday commencing 5th June from 5pm – 10pm, with takeaway treats available from 3pm.
Where: City Tattersall’s Club, Level 1, 198 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
Bookings: www.thesweetestgift.org.au/dessert-bar
