Chelsey's Kandy store is offering treats in time for Valentine's day

SHELBYVILLE, ILL. (WAND) — Chelsey's Kandy Shop in Shelbyville is offering a wide variety of sweets just in time for Valentine's Day.

Treats like candy, fudge, chocolates and brittles are just some of the many items that can be found in the store.

The business started when Chelsey's mother, Kim Johnston, dreamed about making her daughter happy.

Chelsey has Down syndrome, which made her job opportunities difficult to come by.

"It's hard to know that people don't allow people with special needs to work in the facilities," said Kim.

In turn, Kim thought it was time to make a change.

"I worked making the candy and decided that, what better opportunity to give her a job then to buy the business. So that's what we did," said Kim.

From there, the passion grew — and so did the family business

"At first it was more so, like, my older sister who was involved. And then I jumped in, like, after a year of them starting it. And we've been going crazy since," said Chelsey's big sister, Kaylee Ferris.

Since the store opened, Chelsey has accomplished a lot-- and she says she's proud to have done it at such a young age.

"I'm happy. I'm good. I'm pretty good. I'm proud of myself," said Chelsey.

And she's not the only one.

"I am extremely proud. She's happy about it, she tells everybody about it," said Kim.

The community has been extremely supportive of the family's small business too.

"The community that we are, people are honest with her because when she checks them out, you know, they make sure they give her the right amount and she gives them back the right amount...It touches our heart," said Kim.

Customers can find them at 320 E. Main in Shelbyville.

The business's hours of operation are Wednesday through Friday from 11:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.