More than 100 people showed up to Home Depot on Tyrone Boulevard to take part in the store’s workshop for developmentally disabled.
It’s the second workshop hosted by the St. Petersburg location. Only about 30 participants showed up to the first workshop in July, but Saturday morning, 103 people showed up to learn activities to help live more independent lives.
"Oh this is fantastic," said caregiver Sue Payne. "My brother John just recently moved in with me in March. This is a great activity for us to participate in."
The participants were able to learn how to fix items around their homes as well as pot plants.
"I put soil [in the pot with the flower] and sprayed it and I make models," said participant John Copple.
"I love coming out to the store," said participant Lexie Palermo. "My dad comes here every time to work and build stuff. Now, I can help him."
They’re items we all take for granted but a welcome independence to those in need.
The Saturday event was the second of a series of community involvement workshops at the St. Petersburg location. They’re hoping more stores will see their success and follow suit to help the developmentally disabled.
"It was an emotional experience," said store manager Jerry Busch. "I really didn't think it would affect me the way it did, but it's really nice to see how people are reacting to this."