How Blake’s Hard Cider is Giving Back To Veterans and Shelter Dogs


Though many of us think about giving back to our communities year-round, it can’t be denied that the winter holidays are a strong reminder to harness our gratitude into action to help those in need. We love how folks in the cider community frequently — and creatively — finds ways to support causes close to their hearts, hosting benefits, fundraisers, food drives and more.

But we want to give some special props to Blake’s Hard Cider, the Michigan-based company known for its portfolio of refreshing, crisp modern ciders made from apples grown on its orchard. In April 2018, Blake’s launched an entire cause-driven series, Kinder Cider, with Rainbow Seeker, a pineapple and sage cider made in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign.

On November 1, 2018, the second Kinder Cider was released: Fido, made in support of the nonprofit Pets for Patriots, an organization in 41 states that works to place shelter animals with veterans.

Fido (the name refers to both the Latin word for loyalty and the all-purpose nickname for pups) is a 6.8% ABV hopped raspberry and grapefruit cider.

“Blake Farms was founded by my grandfather, Gerald Blake in 1946, a World War II veteran, and we are proud to employ veterans here at the orchard, and in our hard cider company,” says Andrew Blake, Blake’s Hard Cider Co.’s founder and owner. “When we stumbled upon Pets for Patriots and learned of the honorable work they have done, like facilitate over 2,000 animal adoptions and cover almost $50,000 in medical care for veteran’s pets, we knew we had to get involved.”

Check out more about this partnership here, though, be warned! It’s a tear-jerker:

The Blake’s team has set a goal to raise $10,000 and beyond for Pets for Patriots, during FIDO’s season, which will last until February 1, 2019. Fido is available at Blake’s tasting room and in the 18 states where its ciders are distributed. Looking for another way to support the cause? Blake’s also created a limited-edition set of Fido swag that’s really well-designed — including dog accessories like A DOGGIE BOW TIE. Enough said!

Blake’s Hard Cider is located at 17985 Armada Center Rd. in Armada, Michigan; phone (586) 784-9463.

  • Photo and video: Blake's Hard Cider