New shop supports addiction recovery by offering employment. It opens March 1st and funds a vital support group.
The shop, called ‘Support Us to Support Others,’ opens March 1st in Bandon Shopping Centre. The shop is a project by Recovery Coach, a support group, and all money raised funds their services.
The shop will employ two to four people, selecting some service users in recovery. Founder Adrian says the shop helps a lot because people with addiction history struggle to find jobs.
Adrian said getting a job is tough in Ireland, as past convictions make it very hard; he has worked with many men facing this.
The workers gain purpose from this job which helps them on their path to recovery. The money helps cover operating costs, paying for meeting rooms and counselling too.
Adrian and Sean O’Leary run the non-profit group, with Adrian often using his own money to keep it running. Now, they ask for donations because even small amounts help.
Adrian and Sean started the group in March 2024 and have expanded across Munster since then. However, demand for addiction support overwhelms them.
Both men struggled with substance abuse, hitting rock bottom several times. They believe their stories prove change is possible.
Their non-profit offers group meetings, provides free counselling and a helpline, and also helps people find treatment centres quickly.