Moose Jaw Fundraiser Raises $25K for Hope Ministries

A dessert auction in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan turned into a bidding war that raised nearly $25,000 for people facing hardship in the community.

Hope Ministries Moose Jaw held its annual Place at the Table fundraiser last week, welcoming 200 guests to a sold-out banquet. By the end of the night, the organization had raised enough money to keep its doors open, meals flowing, and drop-in center running for months to come.

The dessert auction alone brought in more than $13,000, with three pies becoming the stars of the evening. An apple pie, blueberry pie, and Saskatoon pie sold together for $1,800. The winning bidder only wanted one pie and donated the other two back to the auction, where they sold for another $1,700.

"Those three pies in total, we got $3,500 for them," said Rachel Mullens, founding executive director of Hope Ministries. "It was kind of exciting watching it go on."

The friendly competition created a lively atmosphere throughout the evening. Bidders went back and forth on homemade treats, turning the fundraiser into both a meaningful cause and an entertaining night out.

The Ripple Effect

The $25,000 raised will support Hope Ministries' daily work serving the community. The organization provides more than 100 meals every day and operates a drop-in center where people can access a safe space, public restrooms, and connections to other support services.

During winter, the warming center regularly welcomes more than 50 people seeking shelter from the cold. The funding ensures these essential services continue year-round, helping people meet immediate needs while working toward longer-term stability.

"It's going to help us keep our doors open and our lights on and our staff going and food flowing from the kitchen to those in need," Mullens said. The organization also helps connect people with additional resources and services that can assist them.

Mullens credited the fundraiser's success to everyone involved, from donors and volunteers to the community members who purchased all 200 tickets. But she emphasized that support is needed beyond one evening.

People interested in volunteering, donating food, or contributing financially can contact Hope Ministries at info@hopemj.ca or 306-691-1009.