For Irene Danielson and Linda Fortin, tackling the rising cost of groceries means making sure no one in their community goes without a meal.
Through the Lundar Community Cupboard — which the pair launched three years ago — local families and individuals can access free food items once a week.
“With the cost of groceries, we were told there are people who aren’t able to get enough food in, and us offering just one meal a week is better than nothing,” Danielson said.
The cupboard, located beside the Lundar Community Resource Council (LCRC) office in the RM of Coldwell building at 35 Main St., is open every Tuesday from 2:30 to 4 p.m.
Recently, the space underwent renovations that added permanent shelving and sliding barn doors, making it easier for residents to see when the cupboard is open. Danielson called the update “a big improvement.”
The initiative runs entirely on local support.
“We have received tremendous amounts of support from people in and around Lundar and are able to remain operational through donations from individuals and organizations,” Danielson noted.
Recent efforts include a “tin-for-the-bin” collection organized by the Lundar Beach Sugar Point Cottage Association at its annual picnic, as well as a lemonade stand run by local children who donated the proceeds.
“This program has been so well received and supported really, really well and we are so thankful for that,” Danielson said. “It’s so hard to fathom how some families can afford to stay fed, so it is time to start helping out those people in need.”
While the number of users is kept confidential, Danielson said she knows many people rely on the cupboard. The most sought-after items include canned meats, stews, cereals, beans, coffee and pasta — anything that can make a hearty meal. Personal hygiene products are also available.
During the summer months, donations often include fresh vegetables from local gardens. The cupboard recently began offering frozen meat products once a month and has introduced ready-to-go meal bags, which have been a hit with users.
“People have commented these packages were kind of cool and they’ve liked the surprise meal they are getting each week,” Danielson said.
In the future, she hopes to add bread and frozen vegetables to the mix.
Donations of food or money are always welcome at the LCRC desk. Contributions over $50 are eligible for a tax receipt. Those wishing to use the cupboard can contact the LCRC by calling 204-762-5378 or visiting the office for more information.
Meanwhile, planning is well underway for the cupboard’s annual Night of Lights fundraiser — a Christmas light extravaganza featuring thousands of lights displayed in the yards of Rob Einarson, Craig Sooley, and Grant and Kathy Einarson. More details about the event will be posted to community Facebook pages in early November.
