It’s been a sweet success story.
"It's a good thing for me. For my heart. All the love and support," says Jennifer Allen.
Allen is one of several Staten Islanders with down syndrome who work at this chocolate shop on Forest Avenue. It is run by On Your Mark, a non-profit that has an employment program for people with special needs.
"Employment gives you a self worth. Freedom. You can do whatever you want with your money. Purchase things that you would like to buy. They are just like anyone else," said Joseph Gori of On Your Mark.
The shop opened about a week ago. It is connected to On Your Mark Cafe, which has been around for 13 years. Staff began making chocolate and selling it in the cafe 2 years ago. Then the space next door became available.
"Luddies was here for many years. They decided to retire. It was almost like a godsent," said John Bilotti of On Your Mark.
Most of the chocolate is made on site with a state-of-the-art machine.
"Its able to cover things into chocolate. Its able to mold into different forms like an Easter bunny. Its also able to temper the chocolate which is the most important part," said Gori.
"It's alot of fun. It is new for us. We learn different things," added Allen.
The shop also has dozens of flavored truffles. Jeanine Long, another consumer knows them all by heart.
"My favorite is dark chocolate. It's good for your heart," said Long.
"It is unbelievable how they have responded to the chocolate. I thought it would be difficult to engage them in the process but it's the exact opposite," said the shop manager.
The shop is now open Wednesday through Saturday. Staff here say they will likely extend their hours in the near future.