Tupperware for a Cause takes off

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/07/2021 (672 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Shannon Derkatch is a Tupperware lady who’s on a mission with her five-year-old son.

The River Park South resident and former ER nurse began selling Tupperware in May 2021. Her enterprise has quickly turned into a great deal more.

“I started selling Tupperware because I was already buying so much for our family and wanted to save money” said Derkatch.

It wasn’t until her son learned about Community Helpers in kindergarten that Derkatch’s past and present came together.

“I wanted him to understand that you don’t need to be an adult working in a defined role like a police officer or a nurse to make a difference. We decided to donate my June Tupperware commission to Main Street Project. I knew first-hand from my time in the ER they work with some of our most vulnerable Winnipeggers.”

Tupperware for a Cause was born. Through virtual events, Derkatch has contributed at least $400 to a different charity each month. Derkatch and her son research various organizations, read about what they do and discuss how the donations might be used. Her son helps sort and pack orders and assists with deliveries.

For July, Derkatch has teamed up with a student services teacher in the Louis Riel School Division to sponsor dishwasher-safe and BPA-free water bottles for community children in need.

“Because of COVID-19, water fountains have been turned off in schools. Some don’t have air conditioning,” Derkatch explained.

“Children without a water bottle are given tiny paper cups to refill. Through this initiative, the bottles will be labelled and kept at the school for students.”

At press time, Derkatch had 60 bottles sponsored at $8 each, destined for four LRSD schools.

“The response so far has been tremendous,” Derkatch said. ”The pandemic has made life more difficult. Households that were just above the poverty line before are now struggling to make ends meet. Providing better access to drinking water in schools is one way we can help.”  
Derkatch appreciates how her family is learning about giving.

“My son feels important, and my husband is so proud of him. It’s given us many special moments together. I hope my two-year-old joins us in a few years.”

Readers can support the water bottle drive and learn more by emailing Derkatch at TupperwareForACause@gmail.com or by joining the Tupperware for a Cause private Facebook group.

Derkatch posts pictures and videos with information about the monthly charity and total donations.