What began as a small, volunteer-led effort to address food insecurity in Carman has grown into a vital community resource now serving more than 600 people, and organizers say they are just getting started.
Carman and Area Food Pantry board members Bob Pauls, Terra Huston, Mandy Dyck, Amber Enns, Heidi Bergsma, Bertha Lelond, and Joyce Beichter (missing is member Corey Taylor) at last week’s community information night
At a recent community information evening, the Carman & Area Food Pantry shared its story, current operations, and a vision for a more comprehensive approach to supporting residents.
“We’re more than just a food bank,” said board chair Terra Huston.
The food pantry was formed in 2022 after multiple community groups independently identified the need for local food support. Rather than launching separate efforts, they came together to create a single, coordinated initiative.
“It was important to us that instead of three groups trying to all do the same thing, that we call a meeting,” Huston said.
That decision quickly gained momentum. With support from local partners, including the former Carman Mennonite Church and Harvest Manitoba, the pantry officially opened in November 2022.
On its first day, 19 households had registered. Volunteers prepared for 30, and every hamper was claimed.
“We thought this was a big pantry,” Huston said. “If only we knew.”
Today, the need has grown significantly. The pantry now serves 228 households, representing 607 individuals, including more than 200 children.
“I want to pause on that for a moment,” said board member Mandy Dyck. “That’s 207 children whose daily diet is being supplemented by the food provided through the food pantry.”
The pantry operates once a month, with volunteers collecting food from Winnipeg, organizing donations, and preparing the space for a grocery-style shopping experience.
“There is dignity in being able to choose the food that works best for your family,” Dyck said.
That approach reflects the pantry’s broader philosophy, one centered on dignity, connection, and community.
“We decided from the start that we wouldn’t judge people’s needs,” Huston said. “If they said they needed assistance, we didn’t ask any questions.”
Beyond food, organizers have worked intentionally to create a welcoming environment where people can connect with others, access information, and feel a sense of belonging.
“The food bank not just helped me with my needs, it also became the way to meet the community,” one participant shared in a written testimonial.
Another described the impact more broadly: “It reminded us that we are not alone and that there is compassion and generosity all around us.”
The pantry’s growth has been supported by a large volunteer base, with contributions from schools, community groups, and individual residents. Still, organizers say more help is always needed.
“It truly takes many hands,” Dyck said. “Whether you’re able to give an hour or much more, many hands really do make light work.”
The organization also works closely with Carman Wellness Connections, which provides charitable support and helps connect pantry users with additional programs and resources.
“We’re stronger by working together than if we’re working in silos,” said Karen Tjaden, co-chair of Carman Wellness Connections.
That partnership is part of a broader vision, one that goes beyond food assistance alone. Organizers say the long-term goal is to create a shared space where residents can access multiple supports in one location, including mental health resources, employment assistance, and strengthening community connections.
“We began envisioning something far greater than gathering together … to provide food,” board member Bob Pauls said.
Ideas have included everything from centralized support services to practical additions like a community laundromat, all aimed at reducing barriers and strengthening community connections.
“If our aim is to move beyond food once a month, perhaps we need different space,” Pauls noted.
While the vision is still developing, organizers say the need for support remains clear, and likely will for the foreseeable future.
“Look at the world around us … fuel prices impact food prices and so everything goes up,” Pauls said. “So many in this world live on the edge between making it and not making it.”
Even so, there are signs of progress. Organizers say some participants have been moving away from needing regular support, often after finding employment or building new connections through the pantry.
“When someone comes in and says, ‘I don’t think I need this anymore’ … that’s pretty exciting,” Huston said.
For now, the pantry continues to focus on meeting immediate needs while building toward a more comprehensive model of care.
“At its heart, the Carman and Area Food Pantry is about neighbours helping neighbours with dignity and compassion,” Dyck said. “Making sure that no one in our community has to face hunger alone.”
