2024 Share the Light charity winners

We believe in supporting the communities where we live and work. Every fall, we ask for help in recognizing the local charities who work tirelessly to make our communities a better, more inclusive place for all. And for whom, without their constant efforts and dedication, many people would be unable to meet basic daily needs, such as clothing, shelter, or food. 

From the nominations received, two charities are chosen to receive a $3,500 donation from SCU.

Here are the 2024 recipients:

Agape House-Eastman Crisis Centre, Inc.

Agape House-Eastman Crisis Centre, Inc., is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing safe shelter, counselling, and ongoing support to individuals and families affected by gender-based violence. The organization focuses on providing immediate needs, such as housing, creating a safe space for those in crisis looking for refuge while they rebuild their lives.

Executive Director, Tracy Whitby said the impact of this $3,500 donation from SCU will be significant. “With the growing demand for our services—our bednight statistics are on track to be 55% higher than last year—this donation will allow us to continue meeting the increasing need in our community. Every dollar will help provide the resources necessary to support and empower those we serve.”

Whitby says they are grateful to all those who nominated them for SCU’s Share the Light initiative. “Their support and belief in our work are deeply meaningful to us. It is heartwarming to know that our efforts are making a difference in the community, and this nomination is a reminder that our mission to provide safety and support to those experiencing gender-based violence is shared by so many.”

To learn more about the important work being done at Agape House, please visit their website.

Harvest Manitoba

With a network that spans 46 Manitoba urban, rural, and northern communities, Harvest Manitoba is the 4th largest food distributor of its kind in Canada. The organization collects and distributes over 12.5 million pounds of food annually for Manitobans experiencing food insecurity.

But that’s not all they do. Harvest Manitoba is a strong advocate for systemic change, committed to tackling the root cause of hunger while supporting skill development programs and contributing to building community resiliency.

Colleen McVarish, Director of Partnerships & Development, says, “Every day we strive to create a more equitable Manitoba, where no one has to choose between paying the bills and putting food on the table.” 

McVarish says receiving a $3,500 donation from SCU will directly support their mission. “It will help us distribute nutritious food to the over 108,000 individuals we serve monthly, including children, families, and seniors.” More specifically, McVarish adds, “With $3,500, we can provide approximately 7,000 meals.” Donations like this one also allow the organization to continue programs such as their First Steps initiative, which supports caregivers and parents of infants by providing them with access to formula, diapers, and baby food.

And, to those who nominated Harvest Manitoba in the Share the Light contest, McVarish thanks you for recognizing the importance of the work being done at Harvest Manitoba. “Knowing that our efforts are valued by the very people we serve inspires us to work even harder to make a difference. Your belief in our mission fuels our resolve to end hunger and food insecurity in Manitoba.”

To learn more about the important work being done by Harvest Manitoba, visit their website.