View From the Legislature

While it may seem almost expected, it is something that residents of our region should both celebrate and take pride in. Recent statistics show that when it comes to charitable giving, we again have received top honors.

According to Statistics Canada, in 2016 Steinbach led the country of cities with a population of more than 10,000 in charitable giving. It led in both average amount given and percentage of tax filers who made a charitable donation. Not to be outdone, Blumenort was labeled the most giving community (of any population) in our region as it had the highest median charitable donation of tax filers.

The generosity of the residents of our region is well known across Canada. It is one of the first things I often hear when I am travelling in other parts of Canada about the southeast. It is clear that the generosity of current and past residents has impacted many lives. No doubt, much of this is attributable to the strong faith roots of our region. Many residents have learned from a very early age about the importance of giving and helping others.

There is little doubt that the continued generosity of residents is a major contributing factor to the success of the region. Each one of those gifts, whether given locally, nationally or internationally, produces a ripple effect. When given locally, it helps to support those who are in need of assistance, whether given directly or through a church or local foodbank for example. It is impossible to measure what impact this has on the success of a region but it is enormous. That generosity extends not just to individuals but also to community causes, helping to build and support many important facilities in the region.

So while this seems to be almost an annual recognition, we should never take it for granted. Or forget the incredible difference it makes both locally and around the world.

Speaking of generosity…

Generosity can extend beyond financial gifts. Many Manitobans also give the gift of life every year through the donation of an organ, either while they are alive or after they have passed away. They do this by making their wishes known that they want to be an organ donor.

Yet, despite being one of the most generous provinces when it comes to financial donations, Manitoba has lagged behind other province’s when it comes to the rate of organ and tissue donation from its residents. To study this issue and to determine how the rate can be increased, a non-partisan Task Force has been struck with representatives of all political parties.

The task force will be chaired by Brandon West MLA, Reg Helwer and will hold a series of public meetings to hear from experts and stakeholders. The task force is also welcoming feedback from the public. If you have feedback on how to increase the rate of organ and tissue donations in Manitoba, you can send your suggestions to organdonation@leg.gov.mb.ca until March 2. If you would like more information on organ and tissue donation or to register as an organ donor online, visit www.signupforlife.ca.