POP Expands Supported Employment Program Through Gift Store and Laundromat Service

The grand opening of Porcupine Opportunities Program (POP) new gift store and full service laundromat was held on Tuesday, October 8, 2019.

The new gift store, named “Bits n’ Pieces”, features hand-crafted products consigned by local and regional crafters as well as various items produced as part of the agency’s vocational programs. The store already has over 40 consigners marketing a wide variety of products. POP’s laundromat has been renovated, and now offers a variety of new services including: staff support Monday to Friday; a custom laundry service; a barber shop each Wednesday; and a small confectionary. Most recently POP has added “light mending” (hemming, buttons, and patches) to the service package.

The new services mark the expansion of POP’s supported employment program, which provides employment opportunities to individuals experiencing disability. Currently, 9 individuals are working at the store and laundromat in various roles that fit with their interests and abilities.

In addition to the introduction of the new services and employment opportunities, POP also recognized local businesses that are providing employment to individuals supported by the agency. They include: the Royal Canadian Mounted Police; Parkland Co-op; Caroline’s Restaurant; Quilly Willy Early Learning and Childcare Centre; and Blair’s Funeral Home in Porcupine Plain as well as Lewellin’s Sales and Service and the Modeon Theatre in Hudson Bay.

POP thanks our partner businesses for their on-going role in supported employment. We also thank the community at large for all the support and enthusiasm they are showing for our newest venture!