An unexpected and generous donation came in recently for the local Salvation Army.

Major Brenda Hammond says it's related to a large donation they received earlier this year.

"McCain Foods gave us $50,000 earlier on this year and we were just at the beginning of COVID," says Hammond. "We've made great use of that money. Right now, we have four new freezers because the way the donations come in is different now. Winnipeg Harvest is only delivering to us once a month."

She notes this means much more freezer room is required. Hammond says they also have a leaking roof that needs repair.

"The far hallway hasn't been painted in about 20 years and some other things had to be taken care of, as well. Because of this gracious donation, we actually have been able to give gift cards to our clients. It just changed our world."

specially some of these areas that were struggling in the times of COVID," says Melnic. "We've had a long-term relationship with the Portage Salvation Army. It was something that we wanted to reach out to. We couldn't be there in person, but we wanted to give them financial assistance in these tough times."