Over the last year, Gateway Resources has seen a number of investments and upgrades improve efficiency and expand programming for adults living with an intellectual disability in the Pembina Valley.
In April of last year, a new forklift was purchased to aid the Operations Division. Along with renovations and updates to improve efficiency in the woodshop, the organization set new production records seeing sales increase from $770,069 the previous year, to $1,211,019 this year.
"We have again been challenged at times by the amount of work coming our way," Director of Operations Loni Derksen said in his report, adding they built 36,550 pallets/crates last year, up from 27,456 the year previous.
The recycling department saw the prices of products, especially plastics and boxboard, drop in 2018. In total, the department received 2,542 metric tonnes, but shipped 2,077 metric tonnes, down from the previous year that saw 2,636 metric tonnes received and 2,369 shipped. Derksen notes the City of Winkler is currently reviewing their entire Waste Management Program and put out an RFP this spring. He says Gateway will be submitting a proposal.
Gateway Resources CEO Kim Nelson notes they also took on a number of improvements to their facilities and programming including a new driveway and expansion at their 347 Mountain Ave residence. Nelson notes day services and the independent living program have also been expanded, allowing more people to become involved.
In October of 2017, the purchase of two new vans were also approved. With the recent $27,000 funding announcement from the Winkler Community Foundation, Gateway Resources is planning to purchase a new bus as well.
Nelson adds Gateway is hoping to update their office space in 2018.
Tue, Apr 23, 9:00 AM
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