In an incredible show of community support, Zeledon's Bakery on Wheels, San Jose's popular mobile bakery known for its authentic Mexican sweet bread and viral TikTok fame, has received over $18,400 in donations through a GoFundMe campaign after their business van was stolen and destroyed. The funds allowed the owners, Juan Soto and Ernesto Botello, to buy a new van in record time, and they plan to have their business up and running by the end of this week.
The loss of the van on June 21, 2023, was reported by Hoodline, which also noted the bakery's impressive 32-year history serving the San Jose community. The Bakery on Wheels became widely known after a viral TikTok video in early 2021 showcased a customer's mad dash to meet the van. Just over a year later, another TikTok video by user @dianaaracelyyy amassed an astonishing 8.2 million views and 1.2 million likes, further propelling the bakery to popularity.
Throughout its existence, Zeledon's Bakery on Wheels has provided more than just delicious pan dulce, tamales, and other treats to the community. The family-owned business, with Soto and his nephew Botello at the helm, has fostered a strong sense of connection and cultural pride with its unique mobile approach. As the colorful van makes its way through neighborhoods, playing the famous Mexican folk tune "La Cucaracha," locals eagerly await the arrival of the mouth-watering baked goods, including conchas, cuernos, puercos, polvorones, elotes, and empanadas.
In light of the devastating theft and destruction of their original van, the GoFundMe campaign was swiftly launched with a goal of raising $20,000 to purchase a new van and replace the missing equipment. The community didn't hesitate to step in and help, with 350 people raising $18,000 in just a few short days.
This outpouring of support left Soto deeply touched, expressing his gratitude by telling KRON4, "Yes, I'm so happy, and I feel blessed by everyone helping me out, and the van feels good." Both Soto and Botello can't wait to be back on the road, traveling from Los Banos to San Jose, bringing their beloved baked goods to hungry customers once again.
