“And do not forget to do good and to share with others,
for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”
— Hebrews 13:16

By Louise Ewing, Chair, Christian Community Concerns Centre (4 C’s)

A very happy and blessed New Year to every one of you who have contributed through donation of cash or items to be sold, or through service to the Christian Community Concerns Centre [4 C’s] in 2023.

God has been an excellent provider this year, especially during this season which can be so joyous for some and so heartbreaking for others. Our Board members wanted to take an opportunity to share with you the good news about things that we have been able to provide over the last 12 months.

Being a private not-for-profit charity, the 4C’s does not receive government support. We rely solely on donations. We are truly blessed to have received several large local and anonymous financial donations enabling our food bank to meet the increased demand this past year. Every dollar donated to the 4C’s food bank goes directly to the purchase of food from our local grocery stores. Any expenses to run the food bank or the store are paid for through the income earned at the Lily Ann Thrift Store.

The food bank has also benefited this year through an increased number of food drives by local businesses to fill a truck, a cruiser, a bin, or a bag with food and/or toys. Food drives, conducted at Haliburton Foodland and Todd’s Independent, ensure that the items donated are fresh and within the ‘best before’ period. This is so VERY IMPORTANT to the organization as we are, by law, not allowed to distribute items past their due date. Such items must be sent to the landfill.

During these drives, our community can donate at the cash register when checking out, by purchasing items to donate outside the store or they can purchase already-prepared brown grocery bags inside the stores. We want you to know that the grocery stores consult with our food bank manager, Judy, to see what is needed and they, in turn, fill those bags with the most needed items at that time.

The Lily Ann Thrift Store has provided a place for everyone in the County to receive and/or purchase needed items at reasonable prices. The store is stocked through generous donations of clothing, jewelry, books, movies, music, household items and so much more. Sales provide not only funds to support the food bank, but also to share with other not-for-profits in need in our community.

Our volunteers at the Lily Ann Thrift Store spend many hours sorting through donated items to ensure that only the best reach the store! Unfortunately, broken, stained, smelly and damaged items must be discarded and sent to the landfill at a great cost to the 4C’s.

You may not know that the 4C’s (Christian Community Concerns Center) was originally developed by the churches in Haliburton, designed to be a central location where individuals could be referred for food and financial assistance! Our mandate is clear, and we will continue to develop programs to support the evolving needs of individuals and families throughout the community.

“And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts.
For as members of one body, you are called to live in peace.”
— Colossians 3:15