LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – An Orange County frozen treat shop known for giving people with disabilities their first job experience is being forced to sell.
Owners Chip and Andrew Byers of Rita’s of Lake Buena Vista say the damages caused by Hurricane Milton have been astronomical, and they can’t recover from their losses.
The owners want the new buyers to keep their Disability Employment Program intact.
“This has been such an important place for the disabled community. I can lose the store, but I can’t lose that,” said Chip Byers, who co-owns the business with his husband Andrew.
Chip, who is living with autism, said Rita’s of Lake Buena Vista has helped around 50 people with disabilities gain work experience over the past five years.
“I have my college degree and a good work ethic, but no one would give me a chance,” he said.
The shop’s Disability Employment Program has been featured on News 6 and recognized for Getting Results in the community.
“What hurts most is when they come in thinking, ‘I can’t do anything because that’s what my parents tell me.’ Being able to change that mindset meant everything to me,” said Chip.
However, Hurricane Milton forced the shop to close after a power outage caused $8,000 in product losses and $30,000 in equipment damage. On top of that, Andrew is battling cirrhosis liver, and the cost of treatment is overwhelming.
“These four pieces of equipment were the main ones that went out. We also had a fridge in the back that broke down,” Andrew explained.
Despite the financial burden, the couple remains committed to the disability program.
“This program is so important to us that if someone came in today and said, ‘We can take over for you,’ we’d sell it for a dollar,” said Andrew.
The owners are also calling on Rita’s CEO, Linda Chadwick, to honor her commitment to the program.
Chip recalls, “She told us we could reach out to her if we needed help, and she would be there for us.”
Chip and Andrew hope to work with new owners to ensure the program continues long after they’re gone. They are determined to keep making a difference in the lives of people with disabilities, no matter the cost.
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