How sweet it is to give back

Baskin-Robbins and Dunkin’ Donuts at 2005 S. Main St. of Rice Lake, a joint franchise owned by Inspire Brands, gave back to the community in a big way on Saturday at its grand opening. Through its Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood program, the franchise raised $5,000 for the Feed My People Food Bank based in Eau Claire, which serves food insecurity needs in 14 counties, including Barron County.

“It’s an absolutely amazing donation,” said Haley Stowell, the midlevel gift specialist for Feed My People. She said $5,000 can purchase 10,000 pounds of food.

Justin Hess, the franchise’s director of operations, said each year its 65 stores raise funds through the Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood program that is given to a nonprofit that directly serves the location of the franchise.

While the local Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins has been open since the end of March, Saturday marked its official grand opening with a celebration that included the check presentation, a Chamber ribbon-cutting, spin the wheel for prizes activity, bean bag toss, and photos with their donut mascot.

Julie Nicholson is general manager of the Rice Lake location. She said to check its app to earn points for free drinks and other specials throughout the year.