Manitoba Government to Sell U.S. Liquor, Fund Charities This Holiday

The Manitoba government is set to make select U.S. liquor products available for sale this Christmas season, with plans to donate up to $500,000 in proceeds to local charities. According to Glen Simard, the minister responsible for the Manitoba Liquor and Lotteries Corporation, private businesses including restaurants and rural vendors will be able to order previously restricted U.S. products starting on December 4, 2023. Sales at select Manitoba liquor stores will commence on December 10, 2023.

Simard emphasized the initiative as a response to the challenges posed by tariffs. “How can we do some good with what we’re being hit with, in terms of tariffs and our response?” he said in a phone interview. This program aims to leverage the sale of U.S. liquor to support important local charities.

Giving Back to the Community

Two local organizations—the Brandon-Westman Christmas Cheer Registry and the Helping Hands Centre of Brandon—along with four other Manitoba charities, will benefit from the initiative. The sales will conclude on December 24, 2023, after which the government intends to resume restrictions on U.S. liquor products. Simard noted that while this is an exciting development, he encourages Manitobans to prioritize locally made products when possible.

The Brandon Liquor Mart, located at the corner of 10th Street and Victoria Avenue, is among the twelve government-run stores across Manitoba that will stock the U.S. products this season. This inclusion has sparked a mixed reaction among local shoppers.

Lyndon Tarrant, a student in Brandon, expressed support for the program. “It’s a lot better, rather than just leaving it on the shelf,” he said. Tarrant mentioned that he may purchase Jack Daniels, a popular U.S.-made whiskey. He also suggested that fundraising should focus on charities addressing addiction issues, stating, “People need help, just in general.”

Conversely, some shoppers expressed reservations. Keven Bowie, who was heading to the Liquor Mart, voiced a preference for maintaining restrictions on U.S. products. “I would rather them keep it off the shelf,” he noted, although he acknowledged the charity aspect as a positive justification.

Impact on Local Charities

The initiative aims to raise $500,000 if the entire stock of U.S. liquor, valued at $1 million, is sold. Press secretary Caedmon Malowany confirmed that all proceeds will be directed to the chosen charities, with no profits retained by the province. Angela Braun, executive director of the Helping Hands Centre, highlighted the importance of the funds for operational costs, stating, “We are beyond thankful for any help we can get.”

Premier Wab Kinew praised the program in a press release, stating that it would bring joy at a crucial time. “Manitobans have been resilient against Donald Trump’s tariffs and deserve some holiday cheer,” Kinew said. He emphasized that this initiative offers residents a chance to support vulnerable families during the festive season.

Other charities benefiting from the initiative include the Christmas Cheer Board of Greater Winnipeg Inc., Harvest Manitoba, Manitoba Keewatinowi Okimakanak Inc., and the Boys and Girls Club of Thompson.

As the holiday season approaches, this unique initiative not only aims to provide festive cheer but also highlights the power of community support in challenging times.