Belle Pastry Baking with Wholehearted Philanthropy
Khalid Kaskou, owner of Belle Pastry in Downtown Bellevue, has embraced a philanthropic approach to navigate the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivering over 3,600 pastries to healthcare workers and contributing to local nonprofits, Kaskou has prioritized community support while keeping his bakery operational. His foundations in Parisian baking, learned from his parents, have guided his passion for crafting French pastries. Amid revenue losses, he opened a dedicated webpage for customers to donate pastries to frontline workers, showcasing his innovative response to community inquiries. Kaskou also provided his storefront space to local flower farmers, reinforcing the idea of collective support among small businesses. Additionally, he adapted his offerings by creating virtual party packages and frozen pastries, catering to the needs of customers who are celebrating from home. His commitment to uplift those in need and promote kindness during the pandemic reflects the broader theme of resilience in local communities. Ultimately, Kaskou's efforts inspire hope and a sense of camaraderie amidst adversity.