Portage Plains United Way held its Spaghetti Luncheon fundraiser today at the Herman Prior Centre in Portage la Prairie. The Manitoba Government and General Employees Union sponsored the event, and President Michelle Gawronsky shares how she feels to be part of the effort.

"It is amazing. I come from a small town in Southeast in Vita, and I know what small community is about, and I have to say this is one community that has a huge part. MGEU has been a large part of this United Way Lunch for twelve or fourteen years. We're very proud to be out here and be a part of this and be a sponsor for it."

United Way Executive Director Mandy Dubois is excited about the turnout.

"We had a fantastic turnout for deliveries. Our delivery orders were probably up by about 60 orders. And we had a really good turnout that came to the lunch. So, I would say our numbers are up from last year. We're hoping it'll be another great fundraiser for us."

(L-R) Mandy Dubois & Michelle Gawronsky

They sold 541 orders, with 355 of them delivered, adding up to a grand total of $5,000 raised in funds.

Their 2016 goal is $247,500, and Dubois says she sees donations slowly coming in. She encourages anyone who's thinking of making a donation to do so online or at their office. She notes their website shows more upcoming events.

Website: portageplainsuw.ca