WESTBOROUGH – The Bridging Over to Right Opportunities (BORO) Program is getting ready for another five years of success.
Best known for its Sugar Shack, featuring its own fudge and truffles, the program provided an update to the School Committee on Jan. 3.
“It continues to thrive,” said Erin LaPrad, the BORO’s program coordinator.
The program provides individualized instruction for students in Westborough Public Schools age 18 to 22; the goal is to prepare these students for independent living, including career development.
BORO offers internships with several local businesses, including Curry Printing in Westborough.
LaPrad said there are currently seven students in the program, with an increase to 10 students in the near future. She also announced that the program recently hired a part-time event coordinator.
On the Sugar Shack front, LaPrad said the candy business is making more money, thanks to an increase in custom and corporate orders, along with profiles from regional media.
The homemade fudge and truffles “are a unique selling point,” she said.
The Sugar Shack recently obtained a tablet-style register for sales at pop-up shops and other remote locations. It is also considering the addition of gelato to its offerings, and perhaps a candy truck.
The near future could include a renovation to its basement. BORO is working with its landlord, Todd Alexander, to convert the space into a work and storage area.
The renovation would bring its restroom to code and add flexible space with moveable walls.
“Todd is an amazing landlord, and a great community partner,” said Superintendent Amber Bock.
“I’m glad to see it keeps growing,” said School Committee member Jakub Moskal.
The BORO Program is based at 15 E. Main St. For information, call 508-523-0169, or visit bit.ly/BOROProgram.
