The Manitoba government is donating $2.6 million from the sale of American liquor products to support community programs and initiatives across the province, including local holiday hamper donation programs.
“Manitobans embraced this initiative with their typical generosity of spirit, and folks can feel good knowing their money helped to make this holiday season brighter for families who need it most,” said Premier Wab Kinew. “We know keeping American liquor off the shelves has impacted the fight against President Trump’s tariffs, but we’re glad to see this inventory used to generate a little holiday spirit rather than languish in a warehouse.”
Of the $2.6 million, the Manitoba government will donate:
- $1 million to the Winnipeg Christmas Cheer Board to support the delivery of Christmas hampers and other donations to families over the holiday season;
- $500,000 will be donated to Harvest Manitoba to support distribution to local food banks;
- $500,000 will be donated to Brandon charities, including the Brandon-Westman Christmas Cheer Registry and its regional partner organizations; and
- the remaining funds will be donated to Helping Hands Centre of Brandon, the Boys and Girls Club of Thompson and Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc. to support their donation programs.
This contribution reflects the Manitoba government’s commitment to re-investing revenue in ways that benefit residents and strengthen local communities. The funds will be directed toward programs that promote health, education and social well-being.
The Manitoba government also confirmed it will continue to sell the remaining inventory of U.S. liquor products and expand sales beyond the select Liquor Marts in the initial round. Proceeds from the sale of U.S. products will continue to be donated to charity, the premier noted.
