Man with autism starts his own business after no one else would hire him

N. SMITHFIELD, R.I. (WLNE) – A new business in North Smithfield is spreading awareness on the importance of hiring people with disabilities.

The coffee shop Red, White & Brew is run by Michael Coyne, who has autism. He started the business after he struggled to find a job.

“After I turned 21 I applied to multiple places. None of them would hire me,” said Coyne.

His mother, Sheila Coyne, suggested he look into an alternative way to find employment.

“It’s not easy for parents to watch your kid sit around the kitchen table while everyone else is enjoying life and coworkers, and talking about their day,” said Sheila Coyne.

Her son decided to take matters into his own hands. He enrolled in business classes through the state’s Developmental Disabilities Council. He was then ready to open his coffee shop.