Haggen Ferndale

In 2007, Lynden resident Teri began working as a food court attendant at Haggen in Ferndale. Though Teri is hearing impaired, Haggen did not see Teri’s disability as an impediment to employment when approached about potential job opportunities.

The Ferndale store began employing Teri with three weekly shifts during the height of the lunch rush. Teri took over a few small tasks originally performed by cashiers such as sweeping, wiping tables, emptying garbage and stocking condiments. Now, more than two years later, Haggen continues to employ Teri and Teri continues to contribute valuable assets to her team.

Haggen clerk Holly Spanier relies heavily on Teri’s support during the chaotic mid-week lunch hours.

“She is my extra arm,” Spanier says. “When she is not here, I feel like I am broken.”

Teri’s story of employment with Haggen perfectly illustrates the value workers with disabilities continually bring to their employers.

“Employees with disabilities, when fully engaged like Teri, have been show to be extremely productive workers who typically remain with their employer,” CVS Program Director Kristin Nguyen says. “In Haggen’s case, they can look forward to having a loyal and hardworking employee for years to come.”