POCATELLO – Idaho Coffee Company (ICC) is once again showing its support for local foster children this holiday season with the launch of a new signature latte, “Home Sweet Home.” The cozy shortbread cookie and caramel-flavored latte is available at both ICC locations through November 23, with 100 percent of proceeds benefiting the 6th Annual Foster Care Christmas Fundraiser.
This year, the funds raised will directly support the youth served by The Village, a foster care closet located in Blackfoot, Idaho. Deidra Terrell, owner of ICC, has been involved in the fundraiser since its inception, offering her time, money, and efforts to shop and wrap gifts for children in foster care. However, Terrell has taken her involvement to the next level by introducing the “Home Sweet Home” latte.
“It’s delicious,” Terrell said of the new drink. “If it weren’t for fundraisers like this, some foster kids wouldn’t get even one gift for Christmas.”
The latte, which can be served iced, blended, or as a steamer, is available at both ICC locations in Pocatello and Chubbuck: 2806 South 5th Avenue and 322 East Chubbuck Road.
The fundraiser was originally launched in 2019 by local realtors Brandon and Jess DesFosses of Southeast Idahome & Co. Properties, who were inspired by their personal experience fostering a child. After seeing firsthand how few resources were available to foster families during the holiday season, the couple was motivated to help ensure that no child in foster care would go without a gift on Christmas Day.
“This fundraiser is a way for the community to step up and make sure these kids feel cared for and special during the holidays,” said Jess DesFosses. “Thanks to overwhelming support from local businesses and residents, we are thrilled to sponsor at least 37 children this year.”
As part of the fundraiser, local businesses have contributed generously, including the Building Contractors Association of Southeast Idaho, The Popcorn Shop, Brekka Hartman Photography, Fresh Prep Pocatello, Golden Permanent Jewelry, Lettie Boutique, Belnap Orthodontics, Blush Beauty Spa, Lachere’s Fab 5, Kallista Laser & Aesthetics, Museum of Clean, Double B Beef, and Barrie’s Ski & Sports.
A key element of the campaign’s success was the “Gathering of the Ghouls” Halloween Brunch Fundraiser at The Hive in October, which brought together sponsors and community members in a festive atmosphere to raise money for the cause.
As of this year, approximately 3,000 youth are in and out of foster care in Idaho annually, according to the Idaho Department of Health & Welfare. Terrell hopes the signature latte and ongoing community support will help provide some holiday cheer to these children in need.
“We have grown each year thanks to the continued generosity of local businesses and community members,” Terrell said. “This is what makes a difference for these kids—knowing that people care.”