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COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT - Many Hands Resource Centre
MANY HANDS MANY HANDS MANY HANDS
Rising inflation, skyrocketing gas and food prices… the compounding effects are especially being felt by those facing poverty, homelessness, and food insecurity.
The initial discussion group on food security and the first Many Hands formal board, were all people in professions where they saw the poverty in individuals and families that may not be obvious to other community members. “People would be shocked. We see a significant need, and we feel like we can’t walk away, we have to address it.”
It’s the reason the Many Hands Resource Centre has made itself a refuge in the city of Morden since 2012.
Board member Brenda Klassen says that since the beginning, the founders were keenly aware of the silent struggles of many families in Southern Manitoba.
“We really see every situation that you would see in Winnipeg, people struggling with addictions, mental health, people out of work for a variety of reasons.” More than 50 families come every week to the food bank and the need is growing.
But the resolve and good work at Many Hands Resource Centre is also growing.
“It’s great to work with a team of people who are all passionate about the work that we do, and to know we’re making a big difference in our community,” Klassen says. The growing team of volunteers from all walks of life has allowed Many Hands to kickstart more projects, buoyed by the enthusiasm of local leaders and the generosity of local residents. The organization runs completely on donations, grants, and volunteer hours.
Some volunteers have also experienced need themselves and are now helping improve their neighbours’ lives.
“They feel it’s their life’s mission, and they’re dedicated,” Klassen says. “Some volunteers come every single week and give their all into the relationships we’re developing with the people of Morden, just making sure that the support that Many Hands needs is there… we really could not do what we do without them.”
Board Chair, Dr. Daniel Klauke, initially became involved with Many Hands near the beginning of the
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pandemic through his church as they looked to identify gaps in the community. With a need for board members at Many Hands, Klauke says he was interested in getting involved.
He says the community meal continues to be an effective way to meet people where they’re at. Nothing brings people together like sharing a meal. It’s an opportunity to build relationship, get to know someone, and also meet a tangible need.
At first, he was nervous to take the role of board chair, but Klauke says the team of staff and volunteers were so supportive, it was really a joy and an honour to take the helm.
And since receiving Non Profit of the Year in 2020, the vision and momentum behind Many Hands has only accelerated. Program Coordinator Tracey Krause says as part of the strategic planning that next year, the need for a larger space was identified. That vision would soon lead to their new drop-in at 500 Stephen St. Now, people have a comfortable space to stop in, have a cup of coffee, rest and relax and have a conversation.
So far, the response from the community has been overwhelming, and interestingly the comment they’ve heard most is people feel a sense of dignity when walking into the beautifully renovated space.
One of the hidden consequences of not having food in your house is it keeps you from inviting a neighbour over. Food insecurity creates a cycle of isolation and loneliness.
The 500 Stephen St. location is a way to break out of that cycle. “We’re removing barriers to making friends and helping people out of their isolation,” Klassen says.
Ready to get involved? Everyone is welcome to the free community meal on the third Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the Morden Alliance Church.
You can also join someone for a conversation and coffee during Drop-In Centre hours Tuesday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. and Thursday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Meanwhile, the Morden Community Food Bank runs Tuesday afternoons from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
And don’t forget to ask about the BAG Program (Better Access to Groceries), which provides access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
