Issue link: http://publications.winnipegfreepress.com/i/1470087
JUNE 11, 2022 | give Manitoba 11 CONTINUED FROM PAGE 10 (Supplied photo) Mayor Brian Bowman stops by North End Women's Centre with his holiday hamper donation towards the drop-in's emergency distribution. (Supplied photo) Raine, North End Women's Centre's Buffalo Gal drum group coordinator leading participants in traditional drumming in the garden. (Supplied photo) "Obviously, we want children and youth to be connected to their school and larger communities, so that piece was lost through the pandemic," says Botelho. GIVE HELP Monetary donations are appreciated, though food and supplies are needed, too. Check out Harvest Manitoba's website for a list of the Top 10 most-needed foods. Hygiene and menstrual products, baby formula, diapers and items that offer protection from the elements are in demand at grassroots organizations like the North End Women's Centre. Volunteering is another way to help. At N.E.E.D.S., volunteers are the driving force that help newcomers make those important connections. Harvest Manitoba experiences a volunteer shortage during the summer months, making it a perfect opportunity to give back as an individual, family or even a work or sports team. Bottom line — your time matters. "There is value in donating your time and not just your money," says Dawn Bourbonnais, manager of communications and outreach at Volunteer Manitoba. "Volunteering is a personal commitment that you're making to your community to make a difference." GET HELP Call 211 for free, confidential help reaching community and social services. There's no shame in needing help — giving and receiving is what community is all about.