Centra Cam Vocational Training Association

04/24/2026

✨Happy Volunteer Appreciation Week! ✨

This week - and every week - we want to send out a HUGE thank you to all of our amazing volunteers, past and present, who have given their time, energy, and hearts to The Essentials Boutique. 💙

We truly could not do what we do without you! From putting out donations and helping customers, to sharing your smiles and stories - you each play such a vital role in making our store the warm, welcoming, and thriving place it is.

A very special shoutout to our current volunteer team: Helga, Cheryl, Annette, and Jackie - you all are absolute gems, and we are so grateful for the joy, hard work, and kindness you bring to our store each day.

Whether you've volunteered for a day, a season, or for years - you’ve left a lasting impact. 💐
Thank you for being part of our Essentials Boutique family. 💙

04/23/2026

There are places that exist to make money, and there are places that exist to keep traditions alive. For 30 years, The Lefse House has been the heart of Scandinavian heritage in Camrose. But today, we are at a turning point. We are fighting to keep our doors open, and we need our community more than ever. 🇳🇴🇸🇪

We’ve launched the "Save The Lefse House" campaign with a goal of $200,000 to clear our startup debts and upgrade our aging kitchen appliances. This isn't just about a bakery; it's about making sure our heritage doesn't disappear.

How you can help: Visit the link in our bio to see how you can donate, buy gift cards, or sponsor a tradition. Every share counts!

Visit https://www.thelefsehouse.ca/SaveTheLefseHouse

04/20/2026

As you see from this morning’s photo-Camrose residents were very active at the Depot over this beautiful weekend. Good news! We have made some room this morning, the bins will be emptied this afternoon. A friendly reminder to flatten cardboard as much as possible, and only post consumer packaging. No Styrofoam, No furniture please.

04/20/2026

04/16/2026

Help us congratulate Jessie as she celebrates 16 years with Centra Cam Social Enterprise Ltd.!

Many customers recognize Jessie from The Essentials Boutique, where she works closely with staff to help create a welcoming and positive environment for both customers and donors. Jessie is passionate about helping keep the store accessible and affordable for the community, while ensuring items are presented in a way that makes shopping enjoyable and welcoming for everyone who visits. She loves coming up with new ideas and appreciates when customers share their ideas with her and help to make the store the best it can be.

While you may not always see Jessie in the store, she also contributes behind the scenes by supporting CCSE's safety program, marketing initiatives, and providing support to The Woodshop team as well.

Jessie cares deeply about the work Centra Cam does and the role it plays in the Camrose community. She brings a thoughtful, steady approach to her work and is always willing to step in where needed to support both the team and the people we serve.

Thank you, Jessie, for your dedication, care, and the many ways you contribute to making CCSE and The Essentials Boutique welcoming, community-minded places. We are grateful to have you as part of our team and look forward to the years ahead. 💙

04/03/2026

04/03/2026

Today is World Autism Awareness Day, which makes it the perfect opportunity to acknowledge one of our team members, Curtis Mandrusiak, and also all of the great work that Centra Cam does for our community. We are proud supporters of Centra Cam and have teamed up with them to produce jack pads, great for all RVers! These jack pads are produced right here in Camrose by the team at Centra Cam Social Enterprise Ltd. You can pick them up here at the store for $26.95 each, with 100% of the purchase price going to Centra Cam!

04/02/2026

"Autism and Humanity: Every Life Has Value" is this year's theme as we celebrate World Autism Acceptance Day on April 2nd! Together we can build a community that celebrates neurodiversity, promotes inclusion and honors the rights of Autistic individuals today and everyday!

03/30/2026

STOREWIDE $2 SALE
Tuesday, March 31 | 10am - 5pm
One day only.

Fuel costs are rising.
Groceries are going up.
Everything feels so expensive lately.

We cannot control prices everywhere, but we can make things a little easier here.

Every. Single. Thing. $2
Clothing, kitchenwares, home décor, and more.

Because of your support, we are able to contribute to Centra Cam Vocational’s programming for adults with disabilities, along with other local charities in our community. 💙

03/21/2026

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day! Centra Cam is rocking our bright, bold and mismatched socks to show our support and raise awareness. This year we stand and encourage you to help foster real inclusion in all aspects of community life. Let's celebrate differences and show our support together!

03/20/2026

Take a peek at some of the amazing items currently up for bid in-store! From vintage finds to statement pieces, there is something special waiting your home.

💛 Your bids make a difference - proceeds from The Essentials Boutique supportCentra Cam Vocational Training Association and their programming for adults with disabilities in our community.

How to bid - Pop into the store and add your bid in the binder located by the cabinet. This round ends on March 28th at 5 pm.

And while you are in… Our $2 clothing sale is ON - today and tomorrow (March 20–21).

Come treasure hunt, support local, and leave with a new favourite piece! 💙

03/18/2026

Thank you to all that helped to support this years 29th Annual Bowl-a-thon! The day was a huge success with a special thank you going out to Tabb Lanes! Stay tuned for the final total....