Cookies for a cause: Rockford couple’s bakery helps local shelter animals find homes

ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — In a cozy Rockford kitchen, special sugar cookies are more than just sweet treats — they’re edible ambassadors for animals in need.

Nancy Chaveste-Garcia and Jared Johnson, the couple behind I Rescued Patisserie & Bakery, have turned their passion for baking and animal rescue into a mission-driven business that’s making a difference across the city.

Each month, the couple creates sugar cookies inspired by adoptable animals at local shelters. The cookies sell for $4, with $3 from every sale donated to area rescue organizations. So far, they’ve featured animals from Winnebago County Animal Services, Noah’s Ark Animal Sanctuary, PAWS Humane Society, and Norm’s Piggy Pen at Edgebrook.

“We also do cookies inspired by the longest resident [at the shelter],” Garcia said. “We’ve done dogs, cats, guinea pigs, bunnies — because we have a small animal rescue, as well.”

Garcia runs the bakery full-time, often starting her day at dawn to prep and bake. Johnson, a professional chef, handles social media, photography, and market setup. He also helps in the kitchen when he can.

“I divide [baking] into prep days and bake days because some of the breads, alone, take four hours to do,” Garcia said.

The couple sells their baked goods online and at local farmers markets. In addition to their animal-themed cookies, they offer fresh bread, pastries, and other treats.

“We wanted to do a bakery. We wanted to do maybe a café — something small, something related to food because that was both our passions,” Johnson said.

Their love for animals began with a rescue dog named Penny, who lived with Johnson’s family when he was younger.

“That was our first rescue,” he said. “She was an amazing dog. So, I was like, ‘I really love doing this. I love going to the shelters.’ And we’ve rescued two more dogs since then.”

Amber Pinnon of Winnebago County Animal Services says the couple’s contributions are invaluable.

“It’s so important,” Pinnon said. “We love being able to work with the community and the businesses in our community, especially with this unique business model that they have — really highlighting adoptable pets in our area. When we get to work together, we all win.”

Garcia and Johnson say they hope to one day turn I Rescued Patisserie & Bakery into a nonprofit, expanding their reach and impact.

The bakery has been open for two years. It also accepts donations for local shelters.