Nestled in the quiet streets of Salisbury Heights, one local café is making an impact. General Store at The Heart is more than a local favourite for coffee and comfort food; it is a training ground for people living with disability, helping them gain the skills needed to step into work.
Founded by disability mentor Fern Lawson, the café was created from her years of dedication within the care industry. After seeing how often capable individuals were overlooked for employment, Lawson set out to create a space where inclusion, opportunity, and purpose come together.
At the centre of the café’s mission is its Employment Program, an 80-hour hands-on training experience completed through short weekly sessions.
Each participant is matched with a mentor qualified in both disability support and hospitality, ensuring consistent guidance throughout their journey.
Trainees gain real-world experience across customer service, food handling, barista work, and retail operations. This also includes completing relevant training courses with affiliate organisations.
Graduates of the Employment Program receive a certificate upon completion, a personal reference, and continued support to transition into paid work or further study.
Available through NDIS plans for private funding, the initiative bridges the gap between training and employment, allowing participants to experience the fundamentals of a professional workplace environment.
General Store at The Heart embodies inclusion and community spirit. The space is reminiscent of the classic corner store—where friendly faces, hearty meals, and casual chats are part of the everyday rhythm.
Locals stop by for fresh sourdough sandwiches, Chiko Rolls, thick milkshakes, and signature coffee blends. But it is the café’s deeper purpose that keeps them coming back.
To expand its impact, the café launched a GoFundMe campaign last year aimed at improving accessibility and inclusivity.
Planned upgrades include cutlery for those with mobility challenges, accessible iPads with visual and communication aids, as well as inclusive seating options.
Funds are also being directed towards providing clothing, hygiene essentials, and grooming support for staff who need them. The team also hopes to introduce interactive sensory items to make the café a more comfortable and engaging space.
These kinds of initiatives are the reason KompleteCare continues to highlight and celebrate community-led projects that promote inclusion and break down barriers.
General Store at The Heart is more than a café; it is a community movement. It exemplifies how meaningful work can provide more than a paycheck, it can build confidence, restore dignity, and create a sense of purpose.
At its core, the café highlights the importance of meaningful work, not only as a source of financial stability, but as a cornerstone of self-worth and belonging.
In a place where good food, great coffee, and genuine inclusion come together, General Store at The Heart stands as proof that every cup can create change.
To support their mission, visit the café, consider donating to their GoFundMe campaign, or simply spread the word by sharing their story.
As a local support provider, KompleteCare proudly celebrates initiatives that enable people to gain independence, build skills and feel connected. It is a reminder of what happens when communities come together to create opportunity.
General Store at The Heart
Location: Shop 4/20 Canterbury Drive, Salisbury Heights, SA
Opening hours: Monday – Friday (7:30am – 3:00pm), Saturday – Sunday (8:30am – 3:00pm)
For more information, visit their website, www.generalstoreattheheart.com.
