Tim L
The Winnifred Stewart Society is a long-standing non-profit organization in Edmonton that supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Founded in the 1950s, it focuses on helping people live full and inclusive lives through services such as supported housing, employment programs, and community-based activities. The organization’s mission emphasizes “voice, choice, and place,” meaning individuals are empowered to make decisions, participate in their communities, and reach their personal potential. Today, Winnifred Stewart supports hundreds of people through residential care, day programs, and employment opportunities, while also working to change public perceptions about disability and inclusion.
A key initiative connected to the organization, and an aspect of it that Dan is really keen on, is the Joey & Friends Empties program. This program is a social enterprise that collects refundable beverage containers from homes and businesses across the Edmonton region. Participants sign up for scheduled pickups, and the organization provides collection supplies, doorstep service, and tax receipts for donations.
Beyond convenience, the program has a significant impact. Millions of bottles are collected each year, generating funding that directly supports Winnifred Stewart’s services and programs. It also promotes environmental sustainability by diverting containers from landfills. The program was renamed to honor Joey Moss, a well-known Edmonton community figure who benefited from and advocated for inclusive employment opportunities, reflecting the organization’s broader goal of creating meaningful work and community inclusion for people with disabilities.
Save your bottles! Make a donation! Winnifred Stewart is the real deal. Visit the donation page here and every dollar donated will go a long way to help out this awesome crew! Thanks for your ongoing support everybody!
