The Rhineland Empty Stocking Fund committee is grateful for all the volunteers who showed up on their delivery day last Saturday.
Chair Ang Dueck says 220 families received grocery gift cards and presents for the children in their households.
“We had boys and girls of all ages, with families and individuals all across the municipality, including Altona, Gretna, Rosenfeld, and Plum Coulee, including rural homes.”
She says there was a definite increase in need this year.
“Last year we had about 190 families. It makes sense—our population has increased, and we’re going through hard times. Prices are so much higher, and people are struggling.”
Committee member Ken Bergman concurs, saying they were just barely able to financially manage the demand this year.
“Referrals were up quite a bit, so it will be tighter next year.”
He says using gift cards for the groceries made the whole process a lot easier.
“We need fewer volunteers for delivery this way. It also allows the recipients to pick what they want, so they can choose exactly what they need in their cupboards.
“COVID changed a lot of things for us. When we changed to the gift card system we’re using right now, we also realized it’s easier on our volunteers and our committee. We do miss the interaction with the public that we had on our annual packing and wrapping day, but now we can put that energy into raising funds for next year. It’s been a good move for us.”
This is Dueck’s first year working with the fund. She says it’s been a fun and eye-opening experience seeing how much care and effort goes into the process, and the ongoing support from the community.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to give something back. Especially during the Christmas season.”
Financially, she says they could still use a lot of donations.
“With the increase of families this year, it did make a big dent. We need more donations for sure. We go into preparation for next year’s Empty Stocking campaign almost immediately.”
She adds they’re very pleased with the number of volunteers who showed up with cars and trucks, eager to help deliver the boxes filled with wrapped gifts.
“We’re grateful to the Altona Mall for allowing us to use some of their space to store and wrap presents.”
Dueck thanks everyone who supported the fund this year.
“It was great being a part of this and learning the process of how this fund works. I just want to encourage everybody to continue to support the Empty Stocking Fund.”
Donations can be sent to the Rhineland Empty Stocking Fund, Box 2255, Altona, MB, R0G 0B0.
