Baking for Breast Cancer in Wayland

Chef Carlos Mendez didn’t just bring his passion for preparing Mexican food to Wayland when he opened . He also brought a passion for doing good and helping out.

Viva is joining more than 250 eateries in the Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer event May 2-8.

Throughout that week leading up to Mother’s Day, each time a customer orders chocolate flan or tres leches at Viva Mexican Grill, or any of the specially prepared desserts at other participating restaurants, 100 percent of the proceeds from that dessert will be donated to breast cancer research and care at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

“I believe, in my opinion, that it’s very important to participate in research for this type of cancer or any type of cancer,” Mendez said, adding that his restaurant in Cambridge has participated in this event for the past several years.

Breast cancer has personally touched Mendez’s family – he said his wife’s roommate died from the disease many years ago. He said the disease has been on his mind ever since. Currently, he said one of his best friends is battling another form of cancer.

“It makes me feel like I do my share,” Mendez said. “It gives a little peace of mind that I’m part of it … that we are trying to help [with] fighting this disease. No matter how much money it brings, it’s good to know we are participating with other restaurants out there.”

According to a press release, Carol Brownman Sneider started Boston Bakes for Breast Cancer in 2000 in memory of her mother, Eva Brownman, who lost her battle with breast cancer. The annual event has raised more than $500,000 for breast cancer research and care at Dana-Farber since its inception.

For more information and a full list of participating establishments, including Sudbury eateries Bullfinch’s and the Bakery at Sudbury Farms, visit bostonbakesforbreastcancer.org.