Steinbach MCC donated a total of $50,000 to 15 local charities on Friday morning.

Chair Gordon Kornelson says they value the community immensely and want to give something back.

“Our board figures that the local people bring the donations to the thrift store, and local people shop and therefore we should give something back to the local people as well. On top of that we send a lot of money to MCC Manitoba, which is used for their work at home and abroad.”

Kornelson notes each of the charities that received money submitted an application form, and then all of the charities that fit the criteria receive funds. He says there are a lot of non-profit organizations in Steinbach, and this year they received many more applications than last year. He notes last year they awarded 10 local charities with funds.

Simone Penner accepted the cheque on behalf of Today House. She says homelessness in Steinbach is often not visible to the public, but it is definitely there.

“At Today House we make sure we offer our guests a nutritious meal, laundry facilities, and a bed. We offer them safety and we don't judge. Today House does not receive any funding from any level of government, therefore private donations, and very generous grants such as this is what makes us able to offer the basic needs to those that we shelter.”

David Driedger represented Haven Group. He says the mission of Haven Group is to provide facilities and programs to seniors and the vulnerable.

“We take care of about 400 seniors which is 25% of seniors age 75 or older in our community. We look forward to continue to provide that service, recognizing that we are going to have a massive explosion of seniors and we need a lot more of that in our community, and we are working toward that.”

Stephen Geisler accepted the donation for Eden Foundation. He says Segue Career Option is a division of Eden Healthcare Services and helps individuals who have trouble finding employment.

“It is through rich partnerships with organizations and businesses like the Steinbach MCC Thrift Shop that our organization can continue to sustain itself in the community and provide supportive employment services. This MCC Thrift Shop has been one of the organizations that helps Segue each year with job placements. ”

Kornelson says it is a very fun time to come together and five back to the local people that are in need.

The Charities that received funds:
Steinbach Youth For Christ
Landmark Youth For Christ
Southeast Helping Hands
Soup's On
Today House
Eden Foundation
Haven Group
Steinbach Community Outreach
Steinbach Family Resource Centre
ROC Eastman
Heartland Quilters
Eastman Special Olympics
Agape House
El'Dad Ranch
Envision Community Living