Bulletin - January 2025
This month, we’re celebrating the incredible efforts of our participants across multiple programs. Whether it’s Yehya and Tammy making strides in the Stone Hearth Bakery, EDGE participants strengthening life skills through mini-golf, or a generous donation bringing cultural joy to newcomer families, these stories highlight the power of community, learning, and connection.
Celebrating Yehya: Stone Hearth Bakery’s Participant of the Month
Every month, Stone Hearth Bakery recognizes a participant who goes above and beyond in their role. This January, Yehya has earned the Participant of the Month award for his dedication, teamwork, and initiative.
Yehya consistently arrives on time — often early — and is always ready to lend a hand. Whether he’s learning to bake, packaging products, or adjusting his breaktime to support the team, his commitment to keeping the bakery running smoothly is truly commendable.
Q&A with Yehya:
What do you do at the bakery?
"I'm learning how to bake, but I also help with packaging and slicing. I like making things easy for everyone."
What’s your favourite part of the job?
"I really enjoy packaging. I like putting everything together, adding labels, and making sure it’s ready to go. It’s a good skill to learn for future jobs."
How does it feel to be Participant of the Month?
"It makes me really happy! I show up on time every day, sometimes even early. If I see that the team needs help, I adjust my break to make sure things keep running smoothly. I always try to be a team player. It shows that my hard work is noticed, and that means a lot."
What keeps you motivated?
"I want to learn and get better. At first, I wasn’t sure what kind of work I wanted to do, but now I know I enjoy this. It makes me feel good to work hard and improve."
Any advice for others?
"If you want to get better at something, you have to show up, work hard, and keep learning. That’s how you grow."
Congratulations, Yehya, on this well-deserved recognition!
Keeping It Cool: Solar-Powered Cold Storage at BiHi
Common Roots BiHi really put the cold in cold storage these past few weeks, framing up their solar-powered walk-in fridge with the help of OSO Planning and Design and the support of Halifax’s JustFOOD team. Once complete, this off-grid structure will help extend the life of harvests, reduce waste, and increase food access for the community.
Stay tuned for more updates as we bring it to life! In the meantime, come visit the farm and see the progress for yourself!
Handcrafted Cultural Doll Dresses Bring Joy to Newcomer Families
This month, the Newcomer Women’s Program received a heartfelt donation from Lorna in North Sydney, Cape Breton. With incredible care and attention to detail, Lorna created over 30 handmade doll dresses, each with a matching headscarf.
Before sewing, Lorna took the time to learn from participants about the colours, fabrics, and styles that represent their culture’s clothing. The result? Beautiful, culturally inspired outfits that allow children of newcomer participants to see their fashion reflected in their toys.
Lorna has been crafting doll clothes for years, always with the goal of spreading kindness, and a little bit of sunshine. This time, her generosity has brightened our community in Halifax. Thank you, Lorna, for sharing your talent and thoughtfulness!
Glow Big or Go Home: EDGE at Putting Edge
EDGE participants recently hit the greens this month — glow-in-the-dark mini-golf style at Putting Edge! But outings like this are more than just fun; they play a key role in building confidence, social skills, and independence. Shared experiences in relaxed settings help strengthen connections and increase comfort in group environments. Activities like mini-golf also mirror real-world interactions — practicing patience, communication, and problem-solving, all of which translate into employment and independent living skills. Beyond that, outings support mental wellness by providing a break from stress and encouraging play, laughter, and mindfulness. At EDGE, we know that personal and professional growth go hand in hand, and that’s why we make space for both!
Tammy Shines in the Stone Hearth Catering Kitchen
Stone Hearth Bakery’s catering kitchen is a fast-paced environment that isn’t the right fit for everyone — but for Tammy, it’s where she thrives!
A dedicated participant in our program, Tammy has taken on many roles in the bakery, always stepping up to learn new skills. Recently, she transitioned into the catering kitchen, where her adaptability and work ethic have made a lasting impression. The catering staff couldn’t be more grateful for her support, with one team member remarking that she’s a natural.
Tammy’s journey highlights how the program helps participants find their strengths and build confidence in dynamic kitchen environments. Keep up the amazing work, Tammy!
Rising Stars in the Stone Hearth Sweets Kitchen
At Stone Hearth Bakery, most participants start their journey in the breads bakery, mastering the fundamentals of baking. But for those with a passion for sugary treats, our sweets kitchen offers an exciting opportunity to expand their skills — and this month, several participants have truly risen to the occasion!
The sweet kitchen has been bustling with activity, and our participants continue to learn and offer valuable support to the staff. Many of them have taken on this new role so soon after starting the program.
From learning the art of biscuits and cookies, their enthusiasm and dedication have not gone unnoticed. One staff member even shared, “I wish we could hire them all.”
We love seeing participants explore new areas of the bakery, and we’re excited to watch their talents continue to grow. Keep up the amazing work!
Each of these stories is a testament to the impact of supportive environments, hands-on experiences, and the dedication of our participants and community members. Whether it’s in the kitchen, on the farm, or out in the world, growth happens in so many ways. Thank you for being part of our journey — stay tuned for more inspiring updates next month!
