Omis Hamper and Pantry needs donations
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This article was published 02/04/2021 (794 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
Omis Hamper and Pantry Inc. is a new, Transcona based business that makes hampers to help low-income families celebrate birthdays and holidays such as Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Omis is a non-profit organization and a registered charity that began operation in January, 2021.
Founder and director Nicole Thiessen said creating a business to help low-income parents celebrate special occasions had been a dream of hers for over 20 years.
The concept was based on Nicole’s personal situation and her desire to help others. She spoke openly about the fact that she used to be a low-income mom and said she knows how difficult it can be to provide for special occasions.
“Everyone deserves a celebration,” Nicole said.
The mission statement of their organization states that Omis Hamper and Pantry Inc. enables love, kindness and compassion and that every person is equally valued.
Nicole has a team of volunteers who review all the referrals they receive to determine eligibility for a hamper, taking into consideration income as well as the number of children in a home.
Volunteer co-ordinator Tracy Allen Settee plays a vital role in the business, organizing volunteers and assisting with many other duties. Omis currently has seven volunteers but is looking to increase that number.
Because the hampers it produces are made for a variety of occasions, Omis welcomes goods appropriate for babies and children as well as adults. In addition to food, they are in need of formula, diapers, new toys and clothing. Second-hand items can also be donated as long as they are in excellent condition.
To assist families with celebrating birthdays for children, donations of specific items such as cakes mixes, candles and party decorations are needed. Every birthday hamper includes a toothbrush and toothpaste so donations of these items are also required.
For Christmas hampers, new and unopened gift items appropriate for children and adults of all ages are also welcome. We must not forget our furry family members at Christmas time, so food and gifts for pets are also appreciated.
Omis Hamper and Pantry has storage facilities and is set up to accept donations of perishable as well as frozen goods, with the greatest need being chickens and turkeys.
For large donations, Omis will provide tax receipts for individuals as well as businesses.
Should you wish to donate items, refer a family or volunteer your time, Omis Hamper and Pantry Inc. can be contacted by telephone at 431-335-7473 or via e-mail at director@omispantry.org
Cindy Murdoch is a community correspondent for Transcona. She can be contacted at reflections8@shaw.ca
Cindy Murdoch
Transcona community correspondent
Cindy Murdoch is a community correspondent for Transcona. She can be contacted at reflections8@shaw.ca