The holiday tradition of sharing food and gifts with those in need remains an integral part of the RM of Cartier’s social fabric.

Jeanine and Bob Whitechurch are beginning their third year of organizing the Cartier Hamper Fund. The fund collects donations of food and gifts to be assembled into hampers and distributed to local residents. Monetary donations are used to buy perishable items such as turkeys, along with additional gifts.

Bob said the fund is always looking for gifts suitable for teenagers.

Last year, 27 hampers were provided to families. Bob said he anticipates a similar number of hampers will be required this year.

Individuals who would like to receive a hamper can contact the RM office. In addition, some names will be provided to the fund through community contacts.

"People in the community are very generous," Bob said.

Monetary donations can be dropped off at the municipal office, and anyone wishing to make another type of donation can call the Whitechurchs at 204-353-2360. All donations must be made by Fri., Dec. 14. Hamper deliveries will begin Sun., Dec. 16.

"I guess it’s a feeling that you’re doing something to help your neighbour," Bob said when asked why he and his wife spend so much time working on the project.