Portage MCC continues to give back internationally and locally after 40 years of operations.

A lot has changed since 35 enthusiastic volunteers took out a $1,000 loan in November 1983, with Portage MCC growing to become Manitoba's third-largest privately-operated thrift shop since then.

Kevin Hamm, General Manager of Portage MCC, reflects on their remarkable journey, from its modest beginnings to its current stature, highlighting the significant strides the organization has made, for which he thanks staff and volunteers.

file photoPortage MCC staff and volunteers.

"We're one of the largest employers in downtown Portage la Prairie, and we're only able to do that because of the tremendous support that we receive."

Since opening in Portage, the shop outgrew four different storefronts before finally settling in the former Eaton's and Sears buildings along the south side of Saskatchewan Avenue East, which it currently calls home.

"Between us and the other 15 MCC thrift shops in Manitoba, we're able to provide millions of dollars of support to the Mennonite Central Committee, which they, in turn, use to impact places around the world where people are in dire need, such as Syria, Haiti, Ukraine, and so on."

file photoKevin Hamm, General Manager of Portage MCC.

On the local side, the General Manager, who is in his 15th year at Portage MCC, notes that thousands of dollars are donated to charities such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, Habitat for Humanity, YFC, and others each year.

"Portage MCC is incredibly grateful for our community's support and is committed to serving Portage la Prairie and the surrounding area in the years to come."

Portage MCC says they are focused on alleviating poverty in the community and continually working towards that goal.

Hamm invites anyone interested to attend Portage MCC's annual meeting on Monday, April 8th, at 7:00 p.m. at Portage MCC Furniture Plus.