The Manitoba to Ecuador Project got a financial boost thanks to a successful fundraiser in Steinbach. 

An evening of music and comedy took place on Wednesday, November 23rd with 150 people in attendance.

Mark Reimer says they sold tickets for $20 a piece, which will help provide backpacks and school supplies for children in Ecuador. 

The money will also support Christmas hampers for families in Ecuador who could use a bit of cheer. 

“While tourism and work is beginning to pick up a bit in Puerto Lopez, the fact is there are still a lot of (people), particularly the most elderly and the most young who are not experiencing any benefit of this slowly increasing work life in Puerto Lopez,” Reimer says. “And so, this Christmas cheer board that Andy Izureita has put together provides food hampers and gifts. For every two tickets that were sold, that will be enough money to put together a Christmas food hamper and a couple of small gifts for the kids in the home.” 

The comedy night brought in $3,000 in ticket sales with over $700 in additional donations. 

“It really is remarkable,” says Reimer. “The money that has come in and how far it'll be stretched, the smiles it'll put on faces, the hearts that will be warmed up and the hope that will be built.” 

Reimer says there is still time to donate for these two projects. 

“I’m not heading south until December 8th,” he says. “So, people can contact me and give a donation, if they wish.” 

Reimer can be contacted at 204-381-3490.

-With files from Kenton Dyck

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