What’s your Jam

“Most families would get behind their children and help them create the best life for themselves—that’s what you do,” explains Debbie Wood, co-owner of We Be Jammin’, a homemade jam and condiment business she started in 2014 for her son Jason, who has autism. Then 26, Jason had completed all eligible programs for students with autism, and his mother wanted more stimulation and growth for him. She and husband, Russell, had owned a boat dealership and produced the Rhode Island Boat Show, respectively. The business name came from Bob Marley’s upbeat song; the early products—jams and salsas—from her desire to appeal to Jason’s limited palate. He liked crunchiness, and so she made whole-fruit preserves and chunky salsas. The enterprise grew from a Smithfield farm stand to a bountiful shop in Warwick that is shared with other local makers. The 92 Jammin’ products now include marinades, dressings, barbecue sauces, plus 34 jams and 27 salsas—bacon jam, salsa and ketchup are favorites. Debbie creates the recipes and specifies the ingredients, and she hires a co-packer to cook and package the line. The most important impact of the business has been for Jason: He can endure the strain of a full-day trade show; he understands the order of the stocked shelves; and he truly enjoys engaging with customers. He be jammin’!

Check the website for their seasonal farmers market and events schedule and visit them year-round at 615 Greenwich Ave., Unit 15, Warwick. 401.527.0414; WeBeJammin.net