Salvation Army hosted Hutterite Appreciation Day on December 11

A 21 year long partnership between members of nearby Hutterian communities and the Swift Current Salvation Army was celebrated during a special Hutterite Appreciation Day on December 11.

Dating back to 1997, this annual tradition has grown into one of Swift Current’s largest charitable donation events thanks to the Hutterian Brethren across the region. Colonies across the region literally deliver tonnes of garden vegetables year round, providing nutritious support to the Food Bank shelves on a year round basis.

“We very much appreciate the support of our friends in the Hutterite community,” Major Don Grad said during last Wednesday’s celebration event.

“Thank you to the colonies for your generosity. I can’t say that enough. I want to identify that it’s not taken for granted. It is very much appreciated.”

Major Grad noted that one of the goals of the Food Bank is to provide nutritious items to those receiving hampers, so the fresh produce from the Hutterian communities is helpful to meet that goal.

“It represents thousands of pounds of potatoes and onions and carrots and cabbage, and so many wonderful things that help to fill our hampers that we do on a regular basis throughout the year, and of course at Christmas time in this very special way.”

Between 20 and 30 colonies make contributions on a year round basis, but on December 11 alone over ton of potatoes arrived at the Food Bank.

Major Grad noted the items will be included in each of the 273 food hampers being distributed to singles, couples and families this Christmas.