Northern Comforts is a new business in Benzonia. The store opened up three weeks ago.  Inside you'll find hand crafted items each with a northern Michigan flavor. The artists behind the work are people with special needs. Organizers say the idea for the store initially started out as an art fair to bring people together, but the interest, combined with a grim economy, transformed the hobby into a full blown business. Organizers say the opportunity is helping workers gain job skills and experience. 

"It's giving them the concept of what a business is, because nobody gets paid until their stuff sells and now that it's selling they're getting some of their income back. I really see this as a viable alternative to community jobs," said employment specialist Dani Horvath.

" I like using the router and digging into wood. It makes me feel good when I work," said employee Michael Karas.

Northern Comforts is opened Thursday through Saturday across from the post office in Benzonia.  Right now the store is seasonal, but organizers are hoping to eventually be able to keep it open all year long.