One of my favourite times of year is in the early spring – we just never know what weather we are going to get! Sometimes great, sometimes not so great, but the one thing that remains constant is the fact that change is occurring, and that the outcome will be better days. Great story Mark, you may be saying, but what does it have to do with the shop?
It’s no secret that the shop is in a season of change. Physical building renovations in both 41 and 65, staffing changes and adjustments to some of our processes... all of these are happening at the same time! The changes can be stressful, can disrupt our routines (I’m talking to you, coffee maker, that has moved on us!) or just cause anxiety. However, the changes are all leading to better days ahead, days which will be easier for us all! Your patience during these changes is deeply appreciated by all of us on staff as well as by the various workers that are in the building working. My ask of you is to please reach out if you have questions or concerns – we want you to be as informed as we can with what is happening!
Daylight Savings Time:
Spring Forward!
March brings the promise of longer days and warmer weather! Be sure to mark your calendars—March 8 is the start of Daylight Saving Time. Don’t forget to “spring forward” and set your clocks one hour ahead… or you might find yourself running late!
I do want to pass along a very special thank you to each of you. As you may know, Melanie and I were blessed to go on an MCC Learning Tour in Cambodia at the end of January. While there, we spent days visiting with local program staff, program participants and those helped by the work of MCC. Those with whom we met asked that we come back and convey their thanks for the work that we do to generate funds that allow the good work of MCC to occur in Cambodia. So, on their behalf, thank you. Thank you for the work that you do and the time you invest in the shop. Your efforts truly do make lifechanging differences for people!
On that note, please keep you eyes open – we are planning on doing multiple events for volunteers to relate what we have learned, and to convey the thanks of those we met.
As always, thank you from the staff for all that you do!
Mark Patfield General Manager MCC New Hamburg Thrift Centre
Joke of the Month
If a King sleeps on a king mattress and a Queen sleeps on a queen mattress, what does a Prince sleep on?
A Season of Renewal
As we welcome March and the arrival of spring, we’re reminded that this season represents renewal, growth, and fresh momentum. Your dedication is what keeps our mission moving forward, and we are incredibly grateful for the time, energy, and heart you bring to our community.
This month, we also recognize International Women’s Day on March 8. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the achievements and leadership of women everywhere—especially the many remarkable women within our volunteer team whose compassion and commitment make a lasting impact.
Safety Corner
Safety Tip: Proper Lifting
This is one we’ve had before, but it’s so important for all of us that I wanted to get it out again – especially as we head into spring with the extra work that comes with it!
Step 1. Size up the load
Make sure the load is stable, balanced and light enough for you to safely lift. If it is not, get help or use a dolly or some other lift aid.
Step 2. Plan the job
Find a route that is free of slip and trip hazards. Figure out where you will drop the load off, and plan rest stops along the way if necessary.
Step 3. Establish a base of support
Keep your feet at least shoulder-width apart. A staggered stance, with one foot slightly behind the other, can help form a strong base of support.
Step 4. Bend at your knees
Bend at your knees, not at your waist.
Step 5. Get a grip
Grip the load firmly, using your whole hand, not just your fingers.
Step 6. Lift with your legs, not your back
Flex your knees and hips, not your back, and avoid bending at the waist.
Step 7. Keep the load close
The closer the load is to your body, the less force it puts on your back. Carrying 10 pounds at arm’s length feels like lifting 100 pounds.
Step 8. Pivot; don’t twist
If you need to change direction, move your feet, taking small steps.
Put on your detective hat and find all the hidden words! But don’t scribble all over it—save some fun for the next person!
A legacy of giving our best
At the MCC Hub in New Hamburg, Thrift and Material Resources (kit packing and distribution) share space. The connection between Thrift and aid distribution goes back decades, though. Learn how they are connected in the latest episode of Undercurrents (MCC Ontario’s podcast) and get a behind-the-scenes look at everything that takes place at the MCC Hub. Watch the video for the full experience here: mcc.org/our-stories/ undercurrents-ep-32-giving-our-best
March Inspiration
March 8: International Women’s Day – Mary McLeod Bethune
Mary McLeod Bethune was a Black Christian educator who built a school with almost no resources and an enormous amount of faith. She believed education was a ministry, and service was an expression of love. Her courage and leadership opened doors for thousands, proving that one woman’s conviction in Christ can reshape a community.
March 9: Commonwealth Day – William Carey
William Carey (UK) was an ordinary shoemaker who felt an extraordinary call to serve. Through faith, persistence, and humility, he helped advance literacy, education, and uplift whole communities. His life reminds us that steady, everyday obedience can have world-changing impact — even when it starts in a small workshop.
March 17: St. Patrick’s Day – St. Patrick
St. Patrick turned personal hardship into purpose, returning to serve the very people who once enslaved him. His life shines as an example of forgiveness, courage, and unwavering trust in God’s call. He showed that love and faith can transform even the most unlikely circumstances into blessing.
MCC in Ukraine
As the war passed its fourth year, Ukraine is a country filled with heartache and hope — heartache with the lives that have been taken and buildings that have been destroyed, and hope that the war will soon end.
Kateryna longed to protect her daughter Polina and give her a childhood despite the war. Feeling helpless, she reached out to MCC partner Reimer Center, where she finally felt understood. Polina began horse therapy (see photo), slowly learning to trust as she discovered how horses sense emotions. The first time she sat in the saddle, her face lit up. Kateryna saw her daughter come alive again— smiling, sincere, and truly a child.
MCC and MCC partners continue to support
Ukrainians like Kateryna and her daughter with emergency food and mental health support. Read the latest MCC story from Ukraine: mcc.org/our-stories/learning-cope-adapt-ukrainefourth-anniversary-invasion-looms
Save the date: New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale Promotion Dinner
The New Hamburg Mennonite Relief Sale is holding a fundraising dinner to offset the operating costs of the sale so that more funds can be forwarded to MCC after the sale. Enjoy a delicious catered meal with dessert, as well as musical entertainment. Mark your calendars for Monday, April 27th in St. Jacobs. Registration opens in March.
