Firewood sales mean earning money, learning life skills
Glen Vienneau
Northern News Services
Yellowknife (Nov 17/00) - A plan to sell firewood has evolved into the beginnings of a new cottage industry.
For the six shop workers at the Chartrand Home, it also means employment for those with mental illnesses who otherwise would not be working.
"There's a lot of talent, there's a lot of people sitting around that could work. It's just a matter of a good idea," said Sharon Ladd, business manager.
After three weeks of safety training in the shop located behind the facility, employees have started the packaging of their first product.
"It's a bit of a survival pack as well," said Ladd, adding the $10 bag of pine and birch wood make a good Christmas gift.
Initially, Ladd is hoping to find a market niche at local craft sales.
"We're going to be bundling up as many (wood bundles) as we can to sell this weekend, but we'll also be taking orders," said Ladd.
Ladd has also received interest from a major corporate department retail store.
"It's a good business, it's good, hard work, it's good physical work," said Ladd.
"Hopefully, we're going to take over the market, that's what I'm going to try and do for them."
For the employees, the new business venture means being able to continue developing life skills at the Chartrand Home as well.
Ladd plans to expand the business into the sale of more craft-orientated products in the future and into modest home renovations such as painting, building decks or steps.
"I got a list of things (projects) for each season."
The profits will go towards paying wages and to fund the Chartrand Home's vocational training programs.
