Growing need at Many Hands Resource Centre finding ways of being sustainable 

Morden's Many Hands Resource Centre's (MHRC) need has reached new heights, according to Executive Director Mariyam Tsygankova.  

Last week at the annual general meeting, there were a couple highlights in helping to meet this growing need. 

"This year was marked by significant productivity as we introduced 2 new impactful programs, the Farmers Market and Community Gardens. With the farmers market we created, I think, vibrant help of community activity, bringing together vendors, buskers and families to celebrate local produce and foster connections. Our community gardens not only provided individuals with the opportunity to cultivate their own plots, but also promoted healthy eating and food security, while generating surplus produce for our food bank."  

Tsygankova said the need is growing in Morden for food. 

"Our efforts to support families in need have reached new heights, and recognizing the growing demand for our food bank services from serving 90 to 100 families per week to 110-120 families, we implemented the linked feed database enabling us to better understand and support our clients while enhancing our collaboration with Harvest Manitoba."  

A vehicle was also purchased through grants and donations to enable MHRC to pick up food from Harvest Manitoba. 

Other partnerships also helped to expand the existing hamper program. 

"This year, the initiation of a strategic partnership with Walmart, alongside contributions from other valued partners, has significantly strengthened our effort and as a result, we are now able to incorporate meat and produce in our food hampers, enriching the nutritional quality for our offerings and ensuring greater support for those in need." 

MHRC welcomed a new face, Diane Wiens, to support the work of the organization.  

"We're also thrilled to announce the expansion of our team with the addition of a Volunteer Coordinator with approximately 80 dedicated volunteers, we recognize the importance of providing adequate training and support to ensure the smooth functioning of our organization." 

Tsygankova looks forward to another year and is grateful for the ongoing community support.  

"We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support we have received from our community, both through the generous contributions and the grants we've been fortunate to secure. With heartfelt appreciation, we urge our community to continue their invaluable support. As I always emphasized every contribution, no matter the size, makes a significant impact in our mission, so thank you for standing by us." 

MHRC said goodbye to two board members, Dan Klauke and Brenda Klassen. Anyone interested in the mission and values of the organization is asked to reach out to join those already serving in this capacity: Somnath Naha, Sally Marsolais, Darcy Wolfe, Julie Plett, and Lawanda Friesen.