The Portage la Prairie office of United Way West Central Manitoba helped Portagers kick off their Christmas shopping, thanks to its annual shopping night.
The event, held on November 7 at Canad Inns in Portage, brought vendors from all over the province, with shoppers paying a five-dollar admission. The money from the admission stays with the United Way.
Janice Evens, Director of Operations for United Way, says nights like these are vital.
"We wouldn't be able to do what we do without the support we get," explains Evens. "Those vendors that come out here and are a part of it, as well as the community coming out and doing some shopping."
Edna Wiebe, with Dead Horse Cider, says this is the second time they've taken part in the shopping night.
"We go to a lot of markets," notes Wiebe. "There's a lot of markets out there, but it's always great to participate in a market where it benefits a bigger cause than just ourselves."
Community Engagement Coordinator for United Way, Megan Romphf, adds that the Shopping Night is always circled on their calendar, as they know Portagers will come out in droves.
"It's been busy," says Romphf. "But it's been really good, we've had a lot of support from the community. They always come out and support this event."
United Way is still tallying the money raised from the Shopping Night and raffles. We will update this story once the final totals are confirmed.