As nonprofit organizations across Manitoba face rising costs and dwindling donations, the Bunker Youth Ministry is stepping up with a familiar favourite: a pickerel fish fry fundraiser to help keep its doors open and programming running through the summer.
Kevin Hildebrand, Executive Director of the Bunker, says while the heart of their ministry is as strong as ever, the financial reality is hitting hard.
“Like everybody else, expenses are going up and income is going down,” says Hildebrand. “That’s part of why we’re doing this fish fry—we need to bring in some money so we can continue programming for the kids, keep the doors open, and the lights on.”
“If funds get too tight, that just means we don’t have programming for the summer,” Hildebrand explains. “And that’s horrible, because we really enjoy hanging out with the kids in the summer. We try to give them experiences they might not ever have the chance to do on their own.”
Fresh fish, fresh mission
The event will take place on Saturday, May 3rd at the Bunker (545 Industrial Drive, Winkler), with meals served from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. or until the fish runs out.
The menu features fresh-caught pickerel, sourced from a company in Gimli that provided the fish at a discounted rate after hearing about the Bunkers' purpose. The meal also includes homemade fries, coleslaw, and dessert options (brownies) provided by local volunteers Hailey and Heidi.
“We’ll have gluten-friendly options, too,” Hildebrand adds. “We want it to be accessible for as many people as possible.”
Meals are by donation, meaning guests can give what they’re able, making the event inclusive for families of all sizes and incomes. Takeout and pre-orders are available, with details on the Bunker’s website.
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Not just a meal, but a summer lifeline
Funds raised through the fish fry will directly impact what kind of summer experiences the Bunker can offer. In the past, summer programming has included trips to Goldeyes games, museum visits, beach outings, and more—experiences many youth may not otherwise access.
“If funds get too tight, that just means we don’t have programming for the summer,” Hildebrand explains. “And that’s horrible, because we really enjoy hanging out with the kids in the summer. We try to give them experiences they might not ever have the chance to do on their own.”
“Eighteen years ago, I didn’t know that I wanted to be here at all,” Kevin Hildebrand reflects. “Now I can’t imagine doing my life anywhere else, with any other people.”
Eighteen years and counting
Hildebrand has been with the Bunker for 18 years, a tenure he says wasn’t expected but now feels exactly right.
“Eighteen years ago, I didn’t know that I wanted to be here at all,” he reflects. “Now I can’t imagine doing my life anywhere else, with any other people.”
Despite encouragement to pursue other opportunities, Hildebrand remains committed to the youth ministry.
“I don’t know anywhere else I’d rather be,” he says. “I love seeing the kids grow, succeed, and get to better places in life. I said way back that I’d be here until God tells me it’s time to go—and I haven’t heard anything yet.”
