Old Wawa Reopening As Popcorn Facility Giving People With Autism Jobs

PHILADELPHIA — Wawa is teaming up with the Eagles and its Autism Foundation to open a business that will create career opportunities for people with autism spectrum disorder.

The convenience chain, in partnership with the Eagles, is transforming the old store at 9th and South streets into a production facility for Popcorn for the People.

Popcorn for the People, established in 2014, is an organization that produces and packages popcorn while creating career opportunities for people on the spectrum.

Wawa announced its commitment during the Philadelphia Eagles’ opening practice alongside the team’s owner, Jeffrey Lurie, and the Eagles Autism Foundation.

To enable this partnership, Wawa will provide in-kind support of more than $1.5 million over the next five years.

The store's transformation also includes support from Eagles Autism Foundation via funding for store equipment to make the popcorn in conjunction with their partner, Nouryon, who has been a significant contributor to the Eagles Autism Foundation’s grants program and provided $500,000 in matching gifts to help bring the project to life.

All renovations are expected to be completed with popcorn popping by the first quarter of 2024.

"We are thrilled to join hands with Popcorn for the People and the Eagles Autism Foundation to provide even more individuals with the chance to pursue a fulfilling career right here in our home city of Philadelphia," said Dave Simonetti, Senior Director of Store Operations for Wawa. "This partnership highlights Wawa’s continued investment in employment opportunities for all and commitment to creating a diverse workplace where everyone can make a difference. All of this aligns strongly with Philadelphia’s vision as a City of Inclusion efforts to which we are committed to and proud to support. We look forward to the many ways this store will fulfill the lives of our community – one kernel at a time."

The transformation of this former Wawa store, which closed in 2021, will provide a space where community partners work together to create more career opportunities for people with autism and disabilities, expand the mission and capacity of Popcorn for the People, and inspire the community at large through awareness.

Wawa also joined the Eagles to cut the ribbon at a Popcorn for the People kiosk debuting this upcoming football season at Lincoln Financial Field.

This kiosk serves as an additional opportunity to create new jobs, provide a new sales avenue for the organization and invest in the community at large, while providing education and awareness to thousands of Philadelphia fans.

And, select Wawa stores will begin to carry Popcorn for the People products later this year.

In addition, Wawa will feature Popcorn for the People product samples at upcoming community events to raise further awareness and education of the organization’s mission.

Learn more about Popcorn for the People online here.