Steinbach’s streets, parks, and public spaces are a lot cleaner after the community came together once again for the annual Pick Up and Walk event Saturday morning.
The large-scale cleanup effort, organized in partnership with local churches, drew hundreds—possibly more than a thousand—volunteers from across the city and surrounding areas. Armed with garbage bags and wearing yellow t-shirts, participants fanned out across Steinbach to collect litter and beautify the community in a matter of hours.
Mayor Earl Funk was among the crowd at the kickoff event and said the turnout left him deeply moved.
“You know, it just touches my heart so much when everyone comes out and they care so much about our city,” said Funk. “They actually want to love our city... and I get so many comments from visitors, from other mayors, from provincial ministers. They tell me how great our city looks. It's because of this day.”
Churches in Steinbach have been the driving force behind the event since its inception, organizing routes, rallying volunteers, and instilling a spirit of service.
As the city grows, Funk said he believes events like Pick Up and Walk are helping to build a lasting culture of care and responsibility among residents. He shared a recent conversation with Eldon Wallman, the city’s solid waste manager, who noted that less and less litter is being collected each year during this event.
“That’s so exciting,” said Funk. “Because there's a culture of taking care of our community... we’re not waiting always for the special day. We're picking it up during the year as well.”
Volunteers of all ages took part—from young children in strollers to seniors with walkers—demonstrating wide support across generations.
“What do you say to them?” Funk added. “I just say thank you. Thank you because it melts my heart to see all these people here today and working so hard.”
-With files from Adi Loewen.