2006-04-03 Matagorda Services: Three companies teaching (James Shipp)

Matagorda Services provides employment opportunities for developmentally challenged citizens, enabling those who were once considered unemployable to live independent lives.

Linda Schrader, Matagorda Services marketing and community services representative, and Jo Halbert, president of the Matagorda Services, presented a progress report on the group to the Bay City Community Development Corporation Monday.

The organization has three companies that teach job specific skills to employees: Whamco Pallet Company, Whamco Recycling and a janitorial service.

All three focus on improving employees’ ability to become self-sufficient and live on their own.

Matagorda Services has successfully placed 38 clients into community employment.

Whamco Pallet Company’s sales exceeded $350,000 last year and business continues to grow.

“All of the revenue generated goes back into the community,” Schrader said.

“We’re putting close to $2 million back in the community.”

Five area pallet companies have joined with Whamco and sell pallets through the Matagorda Services operation.

The recycling division of Whamco has been responsible for the removal of about 900 tons of refuse from Matagorda County landfill, diverting much of it into the compost distribution center.

The janitorial service cleans buildings throughout Bay City and the size of the work force varies, Schrader said.

“We are proud of our organization and our people,” she said.

“We hope our progress continues.”

For more information about Matagorda Services, call (979) 245-7770.