Canadian social enterprise The Raw Carrot has been providing employment to people facing barriers to work.

Launched in 2014 in Paris, Ontario, this social enterprise has grown to 10 locations across Canada, offering a pay cheque, dignity, and purpose to people facing work barriers. The Raw Carrot creates supported employment for people facing barriers to traditional workplaces by making handcrafted soups and breakfast products.

Over the past decade, the organization has continued to grow and expand its impact in communities. In 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, it introduced the “Double Your Impact” initiative, provided Mental Health First Aid training across all locations, and launched the Christmas Gift Box. In 2022, it introduced Carrot Cake to help more people overcome barriers to employment and installed a large walk-in freezer to increase production.

The organization added new breakfast products in 2023 and developed its fifth location in Guelph. In 2024, it opened its first microsite in Scarborough, celebrated its 10th anniversary, and expanded into Manitoba with its first location in Winnipeg. Since then, the organization has been focusing on expanding across Canada.

The Canadian not-for-profit social enterprise is creating more meaningful employment opportunities at 10 locations across Canada, including Victoria, by offering flexible training, regular routines, and a supportive workplace where people are valued for their contributions rather than how quickly they work.

Employees earn minimum wage but gain more than just an income, as they build confidence, independence, and a sense of purpose. The organization sells its products at farmers’ markets, fairs, and through local businesses and community groups, using the money to cover wages and operating costs.

Source: John Longhurst, Canadian Affairs