"40 Cans for Lent" is a charitable endeavour commonly undertaken by diverse religious groups and organizations during the Lenten season. Its premise is straightforward: participants are encouraged to donate one can or non-perishable food item daily throughout the 40 days of Lent. These contributions are then gathered and distributed to local food banks, or charitable organizations aiding those in need. This initiative not only offers crucial food assistance to vulnerable individuals and families but also fosters acts of charity and solidarity among participants towards the less fortunate during Lent. Through collaborative efforts, the 40 Cans for Lent campaign endeavours to make a meaningful impact in addressing hunger and poverty within communities.
Once again this year, the Father Allan Hall Council #8604 Knights of Columbus at St. Charles Parish led the "40 Cans for Lent" initiative. Members of the parish, alongside students from St. Charles Catholic School, collected 770 pounds of food and $75.25 in cash donations.
The recipient of this generous outpouring of support was N'Dinawemak, a term in the Anishinaabe language meaning "our relatives" or "our kin," symbolizing the interconnectedness and care within Indigenous communities.
In Winnipeg, where an estimated 1,250 individuals currently lack shelter, N'Dinawemak stands as a beacon of hope. Housed in the former Levi’s Leathers guitar-strap factory at 190 Disraeli Freeway, this Indigenous-led warming centre provides refuge to those in need. With 150 beds available to both men and women facing homelessness, along with amenities such as showers and nourishing meals, N'Dinawemak also serves as a hub for distributing clothing and food, as well as facilitating access to resources and employment opportunities through partnerships with Indigenous-led non-profit organizations. While the centre offers short-term emergency housing, its primary focus lies in assisting individuals in transitioning to stable housing situations, although it does not directly provide permanent housing solutions.
Gratitude is extended to the Knights for their coordination of this initiative, as well as to all who contributed food and funds to support the "40 Cans for Lent" endeavour.