After four decades, the Rhineland Empty Stocking Fund remains an important part of Christmas for many local households. The long-standing organization provides gifts for kids and food gift cards for families in need.
Ang Dueck, new chairperson for the non-profit organization, says that need has continued to grow.
“Last year we delivered about 190 hampers, and that number will not be going down this year. It just speaks to the ongoing importance of this organization. We live in times when many people are struggling financially, and they just need a little help during the holidays.”
Hampers consist of food vouchers for the local grocery stories, and a gift for each kid in the home 18 and younger.
Dueck says the nine-member committee has already purchased and wrapped all the gifts for this year’s campaign and they’re ready to go.
In year’s past, the Empty Stocking Fund committee invited people from the community to help with wrapping and packing food items into boxes for delivery. It was an annual festive tradition for many local families.
“It was a great tradition. But we decided to change that up after the pandemic, by handing out grocery gift cards instead,” explained Dueck. “This way was more efficient.”
Dueck came on board in October and says she’s still learning about the process, as well as the important role the fund plays in many people’s lives.
“It’s a pleasure to be a part of this and it’s been really fun so far. The Empty Stocking Fund is an important organization to have in the community. It’s good to help others in need, and if we can do that as a community, it’s a special thing.
“Christmas is a time of giving and especially for children, it’s hard when mom and dad can’t afford a gift or are struggling just to get the food on the table. A lot of families are feeling the pinch this year.”
She adds that it’s always heartwarming to see the support the fund has received from businesses and other local organizations.
“It’s especially great when you see past recipients of the fund paying it forward by donating or volunteering. There’s that turnaround; you helped me, and now I’m helping you.”
Residents from Altona, Gretna, Rosenfeld, Plum Coulee, and the surrounding area are eligible for hampers and gifts. Call 431-342-0525 or email Rhinelandesf@gmail.com to register (you must indicate how many people live in your home, as well as the age of each child). The deadline to apply is Dec. 8.
Deliveries will take place Dec. 16 from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteer drivers are already all lined up. If there are no children in a home, then a food gift card will be mailed.
If you’d like to support the Rhineland Empty Stocking Fund in its work, monetary donations can be sent to P.O. Box 2255, Altona, R0G 0B0 or dropped off at Pembina Valley Pharmacy or the Access Credit Union branches in Altona, Gretna, and Plum Coulee.
