Local youth groups in the Pembina Valley are coming together for the FCC Drive Away Hunger Campaign, collecting food donations to support families facing food insecurity. Multiple churches are participating, highlighting the power of community action, especially ahead of Thanksgiving.
Zeb Klassen, a youth participant from Bethel Church, expressed his appreciation for the initiative: “It’s comforting to know there are people like our youth pastors who are here for us and the community.”
The campaign kicks off with youth meeting at 6:00 PM to gather food donations door-to-door. "Most youth groups in town are participating, and we’ve divided up all the neighborhoods," said Tim Goertzen, youth pastor at Winkler EMM Church. He emphasized how important this drive is during a time when food insecurity is often more visible.
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What to donate
Common donation items include pasta, canned vegetables, rice, oatmeal, peanut butter, canned lunch meats, and cooking oils like coconut oil. "It's important that the food is both practical and nutritious, so families have what they need for healthy meals," said Goertzen.
In addition to these staples, the campaign encourages the community to donate items they enjoy. "If you like it, chances are others will too," added Goertzen. The food collected will be sorted at the church before being delivered to the local food cupboard.
Importance of timing
The drive is timed just before Thanksgiving and brings attention to the often-hidden issue of food insecurity in the community. By contributing, everyone helps ensure that families can gather around a meal this Thanksgiving, regardless of their financial situation. "Everyone deserves a good Thanksgiving meal, but we know that not everyone can afford it. That's where the community comes in," said Goertzen.
Klassen noted the value of being able to help even when youth may not be the ones donating food themselves: "It's really cool to play a part, even if we're just doing the legwork, walking door-to-door and sorting food."
How to contribute
For those not home during the collection, simply leaving a donation in a visible spot with a note indicating it’s for the food drive will ensure it’s picked up. "Whether you’re at home or not, we’ll make sure your contribution counts," said Goertzen.
For those who may not want to answer the door, there's still an option: “Leave the donation on the porch. We get it—after a long day, sometimes you just want to avoid the human interaction,” Goertzen added with a laugh.
"This is about making sure no one goes without," Goertzen concluded. "We all have a role to play."