Help us scare hunger

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Published on Wednesday, October 21, 2015

By Sharlette Paddock

Secretary

At the Oct. 14 meeting of Riverdale Harvest we learned the food bank handed out 12 family hampers, which included 27 children under 18, one couple hamper and seven single hampers in September. 

We have seen our regular food donations from the church and business hampers significantly supplemented by a couple of donations. One came through the annual home and craft sale in Rivers on Sept. 19. Deerboine Colony graciously donated large amounts of beets, carrots and gourds —we are happy to report all found good homes! We also received more than 300 pounds of potatoes, onions, carrots, parsnips and cabbage from the fundraiser sale From Farm to School that high school students did this month. Last year people graciously purchased bags intending for them to come to us and they ended up at Winnipeg Harvest; we definitely received the produce this year! 

Looking forward to the next couple of months, Rivers Collegiate students will once again support us. We Scare Hunger food drive will be coming to your door on Halloween asking for a donation that will go to our local food bank. Any non-perishable food item would be gladly accepted. We currently are low on macaroni and cheese, soups, peanut butter and canned veggies. However, other items are always needed, such as canned fruit, canned meat, canned beans, cereal and crackers. We will appreciate your generosity as these kids come to your doors! That is our “challenge” for this month.

For November our challenge is to give things towards Christmas baking. You could include a family favourite recipe and one or more items that are called for by your recipe. Items could be anything non-perishable: flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, chocolate chips, etc. or you could donate a pre-packaged Christmas treat. Unfortunately we are unable to give away homemade treats, but we will gladly accept other items including our regular necessities. 

A Christmas bazaar being planned for Nov. 21 will have a collection basket for food donations for Riverdale Harvest as well.

If you or someone you know is in need of a food hamper, please call Sharlette at 204-328-7341 and make an appointment to pick up a hamper. Normally, we have appointments on Mondays and Thursdays. 

Our next meeting is Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at the Prairie Crocus Regional Library; you are welcome to attend!