Each month, St. Andrew's Church supports a local/county organization/charity or cause with donations (when appropriate) and sharing of information about the work of the organization
Our October Outreach focus is the Mennonite Central Committee
From Deb Siertsema
MCC Thrift and Gift: Supporting Global and Local Initiatives
Introduction
As the General Manager at the MCC Thrift and Gift in Elmira, I am honored to serve the Mennonite Central Committee Ontario (MCCO). Our thrift shop accepts donations, which we sell to raise funds for MCCO and its vital outreach programs. MCCO is closely connected with MCC Canada and MCC US, forming a network dedicated to making a meaningful impact both locally and globally.
Areas of Impact
The funds we raise through the thrift shop support six key areas:
- Restorative Justice
- Indigenous Neighbours
- Walking Alongside People in Poverty
- Material Resources
- Welcoming Newcomers
- Around the World
Learning from Global Initiatives
I was fortunate to travel with a Thrift team to Uganda, where we witnessed firsthand the ongoing and essential work being carried out. The projects in Uganda are guided by four fundamental pillars:
- Peace
- Education
- Food Security
- Health
To learn more about these initiatives, please visit:
https://mcc.org/our-stories/notes-uganda
How You Can Support MCC
During the month of October, I invite you to contribute to the work of MCC. If you have recently de-cluttered or downsized, St Andrews United Church will serve as a collection point for items. I will personally transport these donations to the MCC Thrift & Gift, where they will be sold to further support MCC’s mission.
If you prefer to make a financial contribution online, you can do so using the link provided above. Simply click the “Give” button in the top right corner to be guided through the donation process.
Alternatively, if you wish to contribute through your offering at St. Andrews, please indicate this on your envelope. Your donation will be forwarded to MCCO and properly acknowledged.
Debbie Siertsema

Working toward food security for all
We have many opportunities to help alleviate food insecurity in our community and world, two are:
- Blessings basket at church;
- Canada Foodgrains.
