Our Story

est 2015

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We are here to create jobs, raise funds, do good – and eat ourselves silly with the coolest dessert ever.

— Mitch Albom

Created by SAY Detroit founder Mitch Albom, the Detroit Water Ice Factory is a dessert store in downtown Detroit whose profits go to SAY Detroit, a charity. The store follows the “Newman’s Own’’ model of philanthropy, offering delicious frozen dessert, gourmet popcorn, and other products with the sole goal of raising funds to help others.

Many servers are members of partner youth programs.

100%

of our profits help Detroiters in need

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A 501(c)(3) charity founded in 2006, SAY Detroit provides pathways to success for Detroiters in need. This is achieved by direct efforts, with civic and community partners and through programs such as an after-school motivational learning center for youth, 8-18; a free family medical clinic; a housing program for working families; and other learning, health care and housing initiatives for Detroit’s most vulnerable populations. It also supports local partner charities with funds raised at a live annual Radiothon held in December on WJR (760 AM).

Nice Ice Baby!

This place and the people who work here never disappoint!!! … This place is what Detroit is all about to me and they deserve your business for that reason.
(Plus their phenomenal product)

-Dawn V. on Yelp

The Detroit Water Ice Factory makes fresh water ice daily using closely guarded and until now, secret recipes donated by Jon and Adriana Adams, the owners of the award-winning Primo Water Ice in Westmont NJ, widely considered the best in an area that is the birthplace of American water ice. The couple met Albom a few years ago, and responded to his request to create something charitable in the dessert food business.