“Surplus” and “need” are the concerns of our Gifts-in-Kind program. Begun in 1995, the program seeks to provide various surplus goods to registered charities who need them. Items such as computers, toiletries, office supplies and toys are distributed.

In 2006-07, the following donors were generous in providing new and used commodities:

During the year assets valued at $1,253,000 were provided to charitable agencies which paid only $135,750 to receive these goods. Such payments cover handling charges and taxes. Since the program’s inception it has distributed goods valued at $10,724,000.

An agency seeking the assistance of this program must be a registered charity. An annual fee of $65 to $250 is charged, depending on the charity’s annual, budgeted revenue. The first year fee is always waived in order to encourage use of the program.

Last year Gifts-in-Kind, Manitoba provided surplus goods that were needed by 305 members.

Terry Morrow, our long-serving manager of the Distribution Centre retired in 2007. We wish him all the best.