The busy and bustling Tla'amin Corner Gas and Convenience is more than just a corner store, it's a meeting place for those who are passing through or for those who want to stay a little longer.
Owner and operator Del Blaney bought the business last year with the intention of keeping it Indigenous owned. Del and his crew have expanded the store's food options, made entirely with fresh ingredients, and will soon open an outdoor patio space.
On the menu is fresh bannock, made almost daily, made-to-order submarine-sandwiches, wraps and breakfast eggers, plus baked goods. Del said they want to offer folks what he calls “new traditional” recipes such as his chichia's (grandmother's) hamburger soup and fusion recipes such as a bannock chili dog. He added that they will soon be offering a salmon barbecue in celebration of their new outdoor dining area.
"We want this place to be more of a destination for folks from town, to come out and have a tasty bite to eat," said Del. "People come here not just for food and gas but for friendship, a laugh and a chat."
Tla'amin Corner Gas and Convenience also supports Indigenous artisans from all over BC, including Vancouver Island and Squamish. Throughout the indoor seating area one can peruse handmade jewellery, paintings, wood sculptures and carvings, and clothing, all Indigenous made.
The more-than-a-corner-store also employs many hardworking people from the Tla'amin community and beyond, like Leslie Adams-Wilson and Jackie McClinchey, and recently a student, Anika Mowat. To find out more about Tla'amin Corner Gas and Convenience, go to
sunshinecoastcanada.com/listing/tlaamin-convenience-store/193.
