A pandemic hasn't slowed down the Portage la Prairie Bear Clan.

Coordinator Manon Timshel says they've heard from the community that the Bear Clan is needed more during these tough times, and that's why they've expanded their needle team from two people to ten.

"We're hoping to do the same with patrols," says Timshel. "To have them, either, more than one day a week, or to have more than location a night, we need more patrol captains."

She says they have gathered more supplies and training, and now they just need people to step into the role.

"We are actively putting out the call in the community that we need men or women who are willing to commit a few hours a month to patrol and be responsible for their group," says Timshel. "We provide the training."

She notes they have recently received some funding for their care package program and they are working on getting a new freezer. They were gifted a freezer from Simplot that will always be full of fries, which is a huge help. With the funding, Timshel hopes to expand the program to include more than just non-perishable food items. She hopes to soon be able to add fresh fruits and vegetables, milk and bread to the care packages. Thirteen care packages went out on Wednesday.

As for the patrols, they continue in the community with the next walk scheduled for tonight (Friday, August 28th) at the BDO Centre in Portage. Meet-up is set for 5:45.