Image: Archway Community Services / Provided / An Abbotsford non-profit is still seeking employment for nearly half of its 62 staff after its municipal contracts ended on December 31, 2025.

By Alyssa Conti

HONOURING COMMUNITY IMPACT

Abbotsford nonprofit looks back on decades of service after recycling depot contracts end

Jan 11, 2026 | 10:01 AM

ABBOTSFORD — One of the region’s largest inclusive employers waved goodbye to its home of over 50 years as a new contractor takes over recycling depot operations for Abbotsford-Mission.

The Archway Abbotsford Mission Recycling Program began in the early 1970s, before partnering up with the Cities of Abbotsford and Mission over a decade later.

Even back in the day, the program was recognized for its progressive operations and support for workers with disabilities in productive roles.

“I joined the recycling operation after completing high school,” said Chad, an employee. “I worked full-time and this job had provided me with a stable income for 30 years.”

With both municipalities ending their contracts with the non-profit and moving to work with automated waste services contractor Emterra Group on December 31, 2025, Chad says he’s now concerned about his options for a new job.

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“I have a great concern and uncertainty for what comes next for me as a deaf individual.”

Staff developed practical, transferable skills from forklift operation and machinery handling to teamwork and customer service.

Business operations manager Nick Hour added that the depot was many newcomers’ first job, helping them become more “Canadianized” and productive as they build new lives.

“I will miss my co-workers, but I will also miss the customers,” said Jerry, a team lead from Ethiopia who has worked at the depot for three years. “I saw a lot of customers come in, so I learned a lot of English. So when I got this job, my life was getting better, and I can pay my rent, groceries, everything.”

Finding fresh starts

The program supported 62 workers from a variety of backgrounds through training, flexible schedules and accommodations to barriers.

Archway has since found new employment for over half of its staff and has been upskilling employees to prepare them for other opportunities.

“We know many of our staff have been turned away elsewhere because of their barriers or disabilities,” said Laura Midan, COO at Archway. “We’re inviting employers across our community to step up and give these hardworking individuals a chance.”

The City of Mission has employed five people through a local work program funded by cost savings from the new contractor.

Anyone with job opportunities is encouraged to contact inclusivejobs@archway.ca.