Blake Street Bakery: Summer Company Success Story

Sydney Pollack opened the Blake Street Bakery on her grandparent’s suggestion and it was an immediate success. Working out of her own home, Pollack bakes cookies, cupcakes, bagels, pies and scones that are so delicious she has regular customers driving in from long distances for her treats. Having only started baking at the beginning of the pandemic, Pollack has clearly discovered an inherent passion. What was meant to be a weekend gig quickly turned into a full-time job. “I was up early every day, working and cleaning and enjoyed it,” said Sydney.

After applying for the Summer Company program last minute, Pollack had to rush to submit her farmers market application, get in contact with the health unit, install another sink and find insurance and supplies. Though it may have been overwhelming initially, it was certainly worth it.

Pollack notes that the Summer Company application itself was easy to fill in and straightforward. The grant was key to getting Blake Street Bakery off the ground, which was greatly appreciated during a summer when there were fewer work options for young people because of the pandemic.

When asked if she would recommend the Summer Company program to others, Pollack’s response was clear: “I would recommend to others. It’s a really great way to figure out what I wanted to do. …. I know that I have this as a hobby or backup or side hustle. Have the skills to do it… Definitely just jump right in. Don’t hold back. They will provide the money and help with the tools. Just go for it.”

Building connections and working with others in the community has been an integral part of Blake Street Bakery’s business. “I wouldn’t have been able to do this without so many people in the community, answering questions or offering advice,” says Pollack. “ Between customers and other vendors at the market who were so helpful, I always knew I had fresh local produce to work with.” Interacting with customers and talking with repeat customers each week was also a highlight for Sydney.

Blake Street Bakery has become a staple at the Goderich Farmers Market, and Sydney is also busy baking pies for Part II Bistro and West Street Willys. Blake Street Bakery is looking to expand and will be at the Goderich Farmers Market this summer, so stop by and try some delicious baking and chat with Sydney!