Manitoba Egg Farmers (MEF) continue to step up to help Manitobans in need — including doubling their monthly egg donations to Harvest Manitoba.
Notre-Dame-de-Lourdes egg farmer and MEF vice-chair Don Gaultier is one of 170 egg farmers across the province who donate more than 43,000 eggs each month to help feed families.
“When someone needs a helping hand, we should be there to help fellow Manitobans,” said Gaultier.
A first-generation egg farmer, Gaultier and his family began harvesting eggs in 2013 and have grown to love the industry. Their hens live in enriched housing equipped with perches, nests and scratching areas, allowing them to exhibit natural behaviours.
The MEF slogan — We are egg farmers. We love what we do. — reflects how Gaultier feels about the work.
“It’s absolutely true,” he said. “We love producing a nice, wholesome and nutritious egg that is both tasty and sustainable. We’re fortunate eggs are one of the most affordable forms of protein.”
That affordability makes eggs an ideal food source for low-income families — high in protein, low in cost and highly versatile.
Since 2020, MEF has made regular donations to Harvest Manitoba. In 2025, they doubled their contribution to meet rising demand.
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Gaultier said the decision to increase donations was unanimous.
“We wouldn’t be in business if Manitobans didn’t support us,” he said. “Giving back is woven into our culture, and with great outlets like Harvest Manitoba, it’s one way we can say thanks. Harvest does great work for the province, and the impact they make is huge.”
Harvest Manitoba is a charitable organization that collects 13 million pounds of food annually to distribute through more than 380 food banks and agencies. Each month, they feed more than 100,000 Manitobans — and that number continues to rise.
“This donation comes at a time when families need it most,” said Vince Barletta, president and CEO of Harvest Manitoba. “Eggs are one of our most requested items. They’re nutritious, versatile and bring joy to our clients. Thanks to Manitoba Egg Farmers, more families will find this welcome surprise in their hampers each month.”
Gaultier toured Harvest Manitoba’s facility this winter and volunteered by packing donated eggs into 12-packs.
He said the experience was humbling.
“Being able to help those in need definitely made it a positive, feel-good day for sure,” he said.
Harvest Manitoba is always in need of donations. To support the organization or get involved, visit www.harvestmanitoba.ca.
