Gift Garden

In response to the continuing need in Kitsap County for employment support services for people with physical, behavioral and developmental disabilities, staff from the vocational services division of Peninsula Services developed a training program that provides hands-on work experience. In June of 1999 the original shop opened in Port Orchard, providing training, integration, support, increased level of confidence and self-esteem, as well as a part time income to participants in the program.

Each employee is able to focus on developing a work ethic and work routine leading to a feeling of increased self-esteem and confidence. The shop moved to Peninsula Services’ already established offices in Bremerton in 2003 to be part of the growth of the Bremerton downtown district. It shares space with another of Peninsula Services’ programs, Kitsap Office Stop, an outgrowth of our Servmart stores, and which sells office supplies to individual customers and businesses.

The Gift Garden sells home and garden décor, handcrafted items with a garden theme, Kitsap E-Z Earth organic soil amendment and beautiful hand-loomed rugs. All of the handmade items are crafted by persons with special needs who work at Peninsula Services.