Portage MCC rallies behind local organization

The Portage MCC Thrift Shop’s recent fundraising day for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Plains was a success, drawing in community members and raising $4,000. The store dedicates a day to charities and donates the proceeds from purchases made to the organizations.

Kevin Hamm, General Manager of the thrift shop, shared the event’s purpose.

"Each year we have anywhere from 6 to 8 days that we dedicate to local charities in the community," Hamm explained. "We use these kinds of days to raise awareness for local charities that are doing incredible good work in the community and raise funds for them as well."

Hamm encouraged interested charities to apply for the 2025 fundraising year on their website.

"Each year, our Board of Directors receives applications, we're already receiving applications for the 2025 year. The Board of Directors takes a look at the applicants. We get many applications every year from wonderful, well deserving charities, of which there are many working in Portage and the local area. We look for agencies that are doing work with the community, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters. We really want to emphasize and highlight the good work of people who are making a difference in the lives of our neighbours."

Shoppers enjoyed a lively atmosphere, with volunteers from Big Brothers Big Sisters helping out and promoting their Duck Race by selling tickets. Hidden ducks around the store added a fun twist for customers.

"We had close to 500 people come in, which was great. We had people lined up outside waiting to come in. That's always exciting to see. We had good representation from Big Brothers Big Sisters and their volunteers. A lot of their younger volunteers as well and some of their mentors and mentees. It was really great to have them out there helping bag purchases and helping people out with their purchases. It was a lot of fun." 

This event is part of a series, with future fundraisers planned for the First Presbyterian Church Soup Kitchen, Family Resource Centre, and Prairie Pregnancy Support Centre.

For more details or to apply for support, visit here.