There’s a generosity gene in Alberta’s DNA – and it doesn’t stop with individuals. The Mustard Seed is a grateful recipient of corporate Calgary’s desire to give back, and to be part of the solution when it comes to local problems surrounding homelessness and poverty.
“Oftentimes, the most meaningful generosity is that which requires personal sacrifice. In such a difficult economic environment, it would be unsurprising to see Calgary businesses focused on their own needs. But it’s a beautiful thing to see just the opposite. We’re so thankful corporate Calgary is committed to caring for the vulnerable – in good times and bad,” says Christal Loewen, Donor Stewardship Coordinator.
At Husky Energy, for example, charitable giving beats at the heart of company culture. From the top down, employees are encouraged to volunteer in their local communities. Departments across the company have stepped up to serve meals, sort donations, and donate socks in order to help men and women in need through The Mustard Seed.
For many years, The Mustard Seed has also been one of 10 non-profit beneficiaries selected by employees to receive funds from the Husky Has Heart campaign. In 2015, the annual employee-giving campaign, which ran from November 30 to December 11, generated over $23,000 for The Mustard Seed.
This campaign also included a coat drive that collected over 1,000 warm winter coats for guests at The Mustard Seed’s emergency shelter.
Every day, we serve 1,000 meals in Calgary and 300 meals in Edmonton to people who may not otherwise have any food to eat. Businesses like Country Lane Farms and COBS Bread often provide us with meat, bread and produce that become the nuts and bolts of our food program. Many other companies participate by sponsoring meals throughout the year.
Our employment program in Calgary, which connects 200 people to sustainable job opportunities each year, relies on relationships with more than 70 employers in the city.
In each area of our work – whether providing food and shelter, or connecting people to sustainable employment and affordable housing – corporations and businesses partner with us in order to make a positive difference.
We are grateful to the amazing companies in Alberta that support change in our community and work with us to combat the root causes of poverty and homelessness in our province. Thank you very much for your generosity and service.
