When we think about what makes southeastern Manitoba special, one word rises to the top again and again: generosity.
Recently, Country 107 asked our listeners, “What’s the most generous thing someone’s ever done for you?” The responses we received were heartwarming, inspiring, and a powerful reminder that kindness can change lives.
It's no surprise, either. According to newly released data from Statistics Canada, residents of southeastern Manitoba continue to donate more money to charity than the provincial or national average. Manitoba once again leads all provinces with the highest percentage of tax filers who claim a donation. Right here in our region, Blumenort led the way in 2023 with 25.5 per cent of tax filers making a charitable claim, followed by Kleefeld and Landmark at 23.4 per cent, and Steinbach at 22.8 per cent.
Clearly, generosity is woven into the fabric of our communities.
Stories that touched our hearts
From small acts of kindness to life-changing support during difficult times, our listeners shared incredible moments they’ll never forget.
Rae Rae told us how people have anonymously paid for her meals and sent her free gifts to thank her for her animal rescue work. She said, "One local small business even recently refunded an online order I had made and then shipped the product and sent me a note saying I never had to pay. It's an incredibly kind and generous gesture that I'm very grateful for."
When Melissa Friesen’s son was diagnosed with leukemia at just seven years old, their world was turned upside down. But friends, family, their church, past coworkers, and even sports coaches rallied around them. "They filled our freezer for months, came into our home and cleaned, and continued to support us for years," Melissa shared. "I will forever be grateful for their love and care during those years."
Others spoke about generosity that came at just the right moment. Chelsea Adrian recalled receiving an anonymous care basket while undergoing an intense chemotherapy schedule. "I still don’t know who was involved. I’ll never forget it," she said.
Generosity on display today
This spirit of giving isn’t just something that happened in the past — it's alive and well today.
A recent example is the second-ever Soap for Hope event, held at Pharmasave in Steinbach. Mounds of donations, ranging from dish soap to body wash, poured in from generous community members. At final count, 62 bins and boxes of hygiene products were collected, all donated to Steinbach Community Outreach. These items will go directly to families in need, offering dignity and support in a very practical way.
Once again, southeastern Manitoba showed that when there is a need, the community steps up in a big way.
Big or small, it matters
Sometimes, generosity happens in everyday situations that leave a lasting impact. Liz Jackson was working alone at a restaurant when a wedding party came in right before closing. Despite the late hour, she served them with a smile. As a thank you, the groom handed her a $90 tip — an act Liz said was the most generous thing she had ever experienced in the workplace.
Jessie Morgan Belhumeur shared how a stranger once paid for her family’s groceries. "I cried when I got home, I was so incredibly thankful," she said. That day inspired Jessie’s family to look for ways to pay it forward whenever they can — whether it's buying someone coffee or helping cover a cost at the store.
Tracey Lynn Bueckert’s family also experienced a wave of community support when her son was diagnosed with cancer. Neighbours and friends stepped up with meals, home repairs, childcare, prayers, and fundraisers like Brooke Koda's Iced Tea Stand. "We were so blessed," she said.
The ripple effect
Generosity isn’t always about money. It’s about noticing others and taking action to show you care.
Helen Kehler was deeply moved when someone left a substantial cheque for her family in a card at church. "I cried…what a blessing," she wrote. "We needed the funds so much at that time. I pray we can pay it forward."
For Denise Turenne, generosity came in the form of friendship and time. A friend packed a birthday picnic and took her to a private island for a day of fun — an unforgettable act of kindness.
And for Hannah Penner, the kindness of her former community made a lasting mark. "They filled our fridge, freezer, and pantry for us and our kiddos," she said. "We felt beyond blessed."
Keeping the spirit alive
Every act of generosity, big or small, creates a ripple effect. It reminds us that we are never alone and that our communities are filled with people who are ready to step up and help when it matters most.
Here in southeastern Manitoba, generosity isn’t just something we talk about. It’s something we live out — and something we are proud to pass along.