Man with disability celebrates 20th work anniversary at local grocery store

Updated: Apr. 29, 2019 at 10:54 PM UTC
Email This Link
Share on Pinterest
Share on LinkedIn

WILMINGTON, NC (WECT) - Barry Coleman Jr. is celebrating his 20th year working at Food Lion at Masonboro Commons in Wilmington, NC.

“I really enjoy Food Lion and working here," said Coleman. "I thank the staff and everyone that shops. I’ve known them for a really long time. And I’d like to thank them for their support.”

Barry lives with a mental disability and started working at the Food Lion as part of a work program in 1999. Once he graduated with an occupational diploma, Food Lion hired him as an employee.

Barry works about 20 hours a week at the grocery store as a bagger.

“Barry just adds an excitement to work,” said Store Manager Jake Pridgeon. “He’s always so engaging with all the customers and really just touches people every day.”

“Customers have told me that the reason they keep coming back to the store is for Barry,” added Barry’s mother, Paula Coleman. “They love to talk with him and be greeted every time they enter the store.”

The celebration was held at the Food Lion at Masonboro Commons on Monday afternoon.

Copyright 2019 WECT. All rights reserved.