Cookie sales to benefit autism awareness

WARREN

Covelli Enterprises, in partnership with The Rich Center for Autism at Youngstown State University and Potential Development, is raising money for programs that help families during April, which is Autism Awareness Month.

Beginning today through Sunday, 100 percent of the proceeds from all “Pieces of Hope” cookie sales at all Panera Bread cafes in the Mahoning Valley and Hermitage, Pa., will be donated to The Rich Center and Potential Development.

Also, throughout April, Panera Bread is collecting donations at the registers of all of its local caf s for both schools.

The puzzle piece cookie, designed by Covelli Bakers, is the national symbol for autism because of the mysteries and complexity of the Autism Spectrum Disorder. All puzzle pieces are different shapes, representing the diversity of those affected.