Ben's Beans Serves Up Community For Adults With Disabilities

WESTBOROUGH, MA — Nearly one year after its opening, a coffee shop in Westborough has become a hot spot in the community.

Ben's Beans, which opened in September 2024, doubles as a coffee shop and a hospitality learning lab for adults. The cafe operates through Post 22, which is a vocational training and employment program for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities as they transition into life after turning 22 years old.

Post 22 was founded by Christine Simpson when she was told it would be "challenging" to find a day program for her son. His name is Ben, and he was born with a rare disorder called EEF1A2.

Christine worried that Ben, who was the eighth person in the world diagnosed with EEF1A2, faced an uncertain path.

"It was gonna be challenging finding him a day program, because he has seizures and because the waiting list is so long," Simpson said. "I started getting really nervous and started looking into developing our own assets for coverage."

With some hard work, Post 22 officially became a Department of Developmental Services-approved program. In just a few years, the program serves nine adults and plans to onboard four more this fall.

Post 22 provides job coaching and a curriculum tailored to the individual's goals.

The adults also get the opportunity to take part in daily internships with local businesses. Some of the places they work include Cold Harbor Brewing, Classy Consignment and Yummy Mummy Bakery.

But in addition to the goal of employment, Post 22 also builds something valuable, like a sense of community.

"I think every single day is a rewarding moment," Simpson said. “We have built a program that promotes inclusion and promotes community, pride and advocation.”

You can visit Ben's Beans at 1300 Union St. #201 on Mondays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

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