Donor’s Choice was created to allow for charitable groups – be they national or local in scale – to do an annual canvass together instead of individual ones. At one time, there was a door-to-door aspect, but this was changed to a strictly through the mail each April, where people filled out where they wanted their money to go. It has certainly been successful for its 25-year history.
“We just let people know in April it is coming and start thinking about the groups on the recipient list. Some people give to the exact same groups every year, some spread it around. Every bit helps and the groups are very appreciative of it.”
Boissevain Food Pantry was the biggest recipient this year, with $4,6542 collected. Lamb said the representative said their food bill was $3,000 for the month of September, which shows the money will be badly needed. The Boissevain Morton Foundation and Health Centre Auxiliary also cracked the $4,000 mark in 2026.
They had about half of the recipients come to the meeting to receive their cheques. Larger charities like the Arthritis Society or Cancer Society have to send representatives out from cities, and since some do not have Manitoba offices any more, they often do not come. Those who are there usually give a little report about what the organization has been doing.
“It’s kind of neat to hear what they are up to,” Lamb said. “It’s a very diverse group.”
Beckoning Hills Museum returned to the list last year after an absence, pulling in $2,370. One new group is coming on. Palliative Care are on this year for the first time, with two representatives coming to the meeting to explain the group. Helping out families who are losing someone is very important.
“Very worthwhile. It’s something most of us, or our family will definitely make use of. I think it will be well received.”
The totals collected had $75 taken off the top as fees. Lamb said they have had to up that amount due to purchasing computer and software for accounting.
All of the board members will be returning. Lamb, his wife Donna Jean Lamb is the secretary, Deb Merritt is treasurer, Leona Peters, Catherine Heide and Kent McKay are all back. However, he said they could very much use a few more people as well.
Overall, Lamb said they are happy with how everything is working out, and they look forward to sending out the yellow donation sheets in April of 2027.
“I know you talk to any one of the groups, they think it’s worthwhile. We just have to let people know we are here and Donor’s Choice is an option.”
by PAUL RAYNER, Recorder staff