By: Anne Kerr, Trinity Presbyterian Church (Campbell River, BC)
Journey for Hope , PWS&D’s annual event to raise funds to respond to global hunger, seemed like a worthy cause. But its format as a sponsored bike, walk or run event seemed unlikely to work for us at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Campbell River, BC. What could we do that would inspire people to donate?
Trinity hadn’t yet managed to get back into regular pre-COVID social events. So it was decided that as well as providing an opportunity for fundraising, a luncheon would be a chance for fellowship. Since the main function was to raise funds to respond to global hunger, it was kept simple: soup and buns with tea and coffee. Members of the congregation volunteered to make soup, and a local grocery store donated buns.
Our luncheon was promoted as an educational journey where we might learn more about the causes of food insecurity and what we could do to help alleviate the problem. Display boards were set up with information on different types of assistance provided throughout the world, depending on circumstances. The one which got the most attention was the display on rations, with dishes holding each item that makes up a ration.
Each table had printouts from PWS&D’s 2022 Impact Report and a quiz. Answers could be obtained from these printouts, the display boards and a short video produced by Canadian Foodgrains Bank. If the noise level was anything to go by, everyone had fun trying to get the answers.
Our team webpage had been set up with a goal of $1,500. As this was our first year hosting this event, we had no idea how well the congregation would respond. Everyone was encouraged to attend even if they were not able to make a donation since we wanted this to be a social event, too.
Trinity Campbell River has always been a mission-minded congregation, but it excelled beyond expectations this time around. Over $4,100 was raised!
Attendees commented on how much they had learned but were particularly struck by the image of the ration meal and how fortunate we are. And so the journey continues…“until all are fed.”
