Aregak Bakery & Cafe

Aregak Bakery & Cafe is a project of the Emili Aregak Centre (EAC) of Armenian Caritas, Gyumri’s support and resource centre for youth with disabilities between the ages of 2 and 18. ​​Established in September 2018 as the first inclusive and barrier-free bakery/coffee shop in Gyumri, Aregak was co-financed by the European Union, the Austrian Development Cooperation and Caritas Austria. The idea of Aregak Bakery & Café grew when EAC staff saw that there were few opportunities in Gyumri for young adults with disabilities. After receiving therapy, support and guidance at Emili Aregak Centre, these young adults often struggled to find a niche in the Gyumri community. Physical barriers, including inaccessible workplace facilities and transportation options, and cultural/attitudinal barriers, including stigma, poor education and lack of training, usually obstruct their entry into the labour market. ​Read on or watch the video below to learn more about the history and development of Aregak Bakery & Café!