Vending

SOS Care vending program gives students job training in Myrtle Beach

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September 18, 2026

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SOS Care has launched SnackAbility, a workforce development program that uses vending machines to help people with autism and intellectual disabilities gain practical job experience, according to a WPDE News report. Participants learn inventory management, machine maintenance, money handling, communication and customer service while stocking and managing the machines.

SOS Care is a Murrells Inlet, South Carolina-based nonprofit that serves children and adults with autism and intellectual disabilities.

Businesses can host a SnackAbility machine at no cost and customize the selection of food and beverages. Program participants visit each location weekly to replenish products. Cheri Verdone, SOS Care's workforce training manager, said the program is intended to help participants develop confidence, independence and stronger connections to the community.

The Myrtle Beach Fire Department is among the first organizations to participate and will place a machine at its new training academy. Fire Chief Tom Gwyer said the partnership supplies the academy with snacks while teaching students about entrepreneurship, logistics and customer service. The department has worked with SOS Care on other initiatives and viewed the vending program as another opportunity to support its mission.