Last week saw several significant cash donations handed out through the Community Foundation of Portage and District. They went to the Portage Plains United Way, PAWS, and SAM Incorporated, from the Portage la Prairie Lions Club's Donor Advised Fund.

Lions Club President Anita Hart calls it a great feeling.

"SAM is a wonderful organization that helps everybody be a part of the community," she say, "PAWS -- they do wonderful work with all of their animals. And as far as the United Way is concerned, they're a wonderful agency that encompasses so many different programs within our community."

Project SAM Incorporated Manager Tom Wishart says the $590.00 will go toward their clients' lunch program. He's grateful, adding it recognizes what they do.

SAM Inc. receives $590.00

"The money's great," he says, "But it's almost as important, if not more important, being recognized for the effort in the community. This is our 30th year we've been doing this, so it's nice."

$1000.00 went to the Portage Plains United Way, and Executive Director Mandy Dubois appreciates the yearly support.

Portage Plains United Way with $1000.00

"We've just started 2017," she notes, "Haven't officially launched our fundraising campaign -- but the bigger pot that we can build before the official launch just gets us one step closer to that goal."

The Portage Animal Welfare Society left with $597.00, and Catherine Aller-Brooke feels overwhelmed.

$597.00 for PAWS"It's extremely generous," says Aller-Brooke, " We have been doing a lot of renovations outside our building, with the help of Moon Construction. And it also goes a long way to our veterinary bills."

Board member Carey Duncan feels the word's getting out about what the Foundation's doing.

"We have such a broad range of grants, there's something for everyone, says Duncan, "We're just very thankful that people now know about us, and have faith in the work we're doing."

The contributions totalled just under $2200.00.