BROOKFIELD, Conn. (WTNH) — A Connecticut mother and son duo are looking to bring more light into the world, both in the literal and metaphorical sense.

Over the summer, Sandra Pearson and her son, Ty Moore, launched a handmade candle company called Light with A Purpose. The family is donating a portion of their proceeds towards agencies that help children on the autism spectrum. 

“It started off as an activity; we were having fun,” Pearson said. “I invited my children to come into the kitchen and join me in making candles, and Ty had the opportunity to receive my invitation, and here we are, making candles to make a difference.”

Pearson, a special needs teacher in Brookfield, told NewsNation affiliate WTNH that she wanted to do something to give back to the children she teaches at school. 

“Working with children who are on the special needs/autism spectrum is a wonderful opportunity,” she said. “I see their creativity, their strengths, and I also see their struggles. Being able to launch my business and give a portion of the proceeds to individuals on the autism spectrum is so rewarding. It opens doors for more inclusion and more resources.”

From “green apple” to “strawberry allure,” Pearson and Moore say each candle has vanilla, an ingredient known to help soothe children living with the condition. 

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