West Bay Residential Services is the recipient of a Community Giving grant from the Cranston Wal-Mart Supercenter Store. The grant of $1,250 will support West Bay’s integrated employment and community activity program.

West Bay programs offer individuals with developmental disabilities the opportunity to engage in self-directed pursuits, which leads to an increased quality of life. A favorite community-based activity at West Bay is the glamour program for seniors in partnership with the To Life Center. The seniors in the program are provided both the supplies and the guidance to experiment with new beauty products.

Individuals who choose to spend their time pursuing more entrepreneurial endeavors also have that option at West Bay. One popular supported employment program, called Petals, is a small business, owned and operated by the individuals. Petals creates custom ordered, hand-made flower arrangements.  Programs such as Petals allow individuals to both learn core skills for succeeding in employment, while earning an income.

The funds from Wal-Mart will directly benefit both of these programs by subsidizing the purchase of necessary supplies. As well, the funds will support the scouting of additional opportunities for more integrated employment and community-based activities.

When asked about why West Bay was chosen for the grant, store manager Donald Edwards noted the strength of West Bay’s program and its alignment with Wal-Mart’s funding priorities.  “Whenever we can, we donate to local organizations that support the funding priorities of the Wal-Mart Foundation. In the case of West Bay, it is a win-win, as they are a stone’s throw away, and their community activity and integrated employment program is perfectly aligned with Wal-Mart’s mission of economic empowerment.”

West Bay Residential Services, Inc. provides residential, employment and day support services to more than 130 individuals with developmental disabilities. West Bay supports individuals in making life choices, maintaining friend and family relationships and having fun while establishing their role within their community.