Wrapping Paper in Megaphone’s December Issue
byMegaphone Magazine’s December 2020 Edition is officially on the streets of Vancouver and Victoria. This edition includes a special treat for all customers – two sheets of wrapping paper designed by Megaphone’s low-income vendors.
Wrapping Paper in Megaphone’s December Issue
This year, Megaphone highlights nine vendors in its December issue, pairing portraits with the diverse stories of the fine folks who sell Megaphone products. This edition of Megaphone magazine also includes two vendor-designed sheets of wrapping paper, both inspired by the beautiful west-coast.
One wrapping paper is designed by Megaphone’s long-time vendor Stephen Scott. Known for his colourful sales display on the corner of Davie and Thurlow, Stephen is a fixture of the West End community.
Stephen came to Vancouver in 1994 for a fresh start after surviving two life-threatening accidents and a major health scare. He’s also overcome homelessness and a battle with substance use. Today Stephen is one of the more outgoing members of the Megaphone team, appreciated for his sunny personality and willingness to mentor other vendors.
Vendor Louise Boileven is the artist behind the other winning wrapping paper design. Louise is a born-and-raised Vancouverite who grew up in Kitsilano. Today she is an active advocate for women. For more than a decade, she has been involved in outreach work at WISH Drop-In Centre.
When it comes to Megaphone, Louise says that in addition to allowing her to earn extra money by selling publications, there are social benefits to being a vendor. “I like the concept of support. It’s helping me get out there,” she says. “I like that it’s an interactive job.”
About Megaphone
Megaphone is a non-profit organization that publishes an award-winning monthly magazine sold by 175 low-income vendors in Vancouver and Victoria. Vendors buy each magazine for 75 cents and sell it for $2, keeping the profit. By selling Megaphone, people experiencing poverty, homelessness or health challenges can earn income through meaningful, dignified work.
Since shifting part of its sales model online this March, Megaphone has put more than $19,000 into the pockets of its team of vendors in online sales, helping them purchase essentials such as healthy groceries and COVID-19 cleaning supplies.
How to Purchase
Customers can purchase the special edition of Megaphone now from a vendor near them, and utilize the Megaphone app to make cashless payments. All vendors are equipped with PPE and hand sanitizer to keep themselves and their customers safe.
Customers can also purchase a digital edition of the magazine from Megaphone’s online store and can choose to name a vendor to direct the sales to. If not specified, the sales will be split between all active vendors.
Related: Hope in Shadows Launches New Day Planner, Megaphone’s Voices of the Street Available Now
