Pinching pennies may be a thing of the past, but the use of any pennies still in circulation can continue to make a big difference.
Servus Credit Union has teamed up with the Rimbey Food Bank to collect pennies to help those in need.
By collecting the soon-to-be obsolete pennies for the Food Bank, Servus is doing its part to step up to the plate to help those less fortunate.
“It’s a good way to give back,” said branch manager Lance Lewis. “If everybody gives back it can add up quickly. We all have a few pennies kicking around.”
Peggy Makofka, executive director of Rimbey Community Home Help Services, a registered non-profit charity, is always amazed and pleased to see how the people in the community step forward to support the food bank.
“The need for food hampers is year-round,” she said, “and every penny helps.”
She noted there is no government funding provided for the food bank, which runs under the umbrella of RCHHS, and entirely on donations.
The last penny was struck at the Royal Canadian Mint in Winnipeg May 4, 2012. As of Feb. 4 the mint will stop distribution of the penny. While the penny will remain legal tender for some time, the mint will turn its focus to the collection of the coins from financial institutions.
Pennies can be dropped off at the Rimbey branch at 5046-50 Ave. Pennies will be collected from Jan. 23 to March 4.
The food bank is in the basement of the Nazarene Church and its services may be accessed by calling FCSS at 403-843-2030.