Social Enterprises Bring Meaningful Work and Unique Holiday Gifts

Rumyana Ivanova from the Bulgarian Biodiversity Foundation (BBF) and Vanina Kostadinova, Director of the Social Enterprise for People with Disabilities - Plovdiv (SEPD), shared with BTA the importance of supporting social enterprises during the holiday season. These enterprises provide handmade products while empowering individuals with disabilities, CE Report quotes BTA

The offerings include glass and wool Christmas ornaments, textile goods, candles, and even leather-crafted ancient games—all made by people with special needs. Ivanova emphasized that these products are not only high-quality but also serve meaningful causes. "Supporting these enterprises allows people to find purpose and financial independence while bringing joy to others," she said.

Kostadinova noted that employment in social enterprises transforms lives. Many workers had spent years isolated before finding meaningful work, which has given them a renewed sense of purpose and happiness. SEPD's Plovdiv operation employs 27 people, 80% of whom have reduced working capacity.

The enterprise runs three workshops in Plovdiv, producing hand-blown glass ornaments, textile products like municipal flags and hospital bedding, and Plovdiv-themed souvenirs sold in local shops. The intricate process of glassblowing, for example, requires precision and skill, with artisans shaping the glass within seconds of heating it to 800°C.

A central shop in Sofia, "Shtrak," showcases products from various social enterprises, including handmade ceramics, candles, and textiles crafted by people with disabilities or mental illnesses. Ivanova highlighted the shop's role in connecting consumers with these causes, saying, "Even buying a coffee or renting the event hall at Shtrak supports someone’s livelihood."

Corporate support is also growing, with companies commissioning holiday gift boxes featuring products from multiple social enterprises. Ivanova noted, "This trend reflects a shift towards meaningful corporate gifting."

Kostadinova emphasized the need for legislative changes to encourage companies to support social enterprises, such as offering tax incentives and reducing barriers for hiring people with disabilities. She stressed that collaboration with social workers and psychologists ensures these enterprises effectively support employees with diverse needs.

By choosing gifts from social enterprises, consumers can contribute to a larger cause while enjoying unique, handmade products this holiday season.