The rain outside did not dampen the energy of the DownPour Community festival on Saturday.
The annual event offered something new this year as area churches and ministries gathered items such as clothing, school supplies, and hygiene products to give to those in need.
“DownPour Community is an opportunity for the local folks to come in and get things that they need that they might not otherwise have access to,” Co-organizer Debby Wiggers said.
Along with holiday food boxes, people could browse backpacks, coats, blankets, shampoos, conditioners, and other products while also utilizing the medical or dental services available or receiving a haircut.
This was the first year for the festival’s new format. Wiggers said organizers were called to make the changes for the community.
“As we were beginning to plan for this year’s event, in the past, we’ve had the music festival, but the Lord spoke to us that he wanted us to make a change and give to the community in a different way,” Wiggers said.
She explained that DownPour Community wanted to give people the supplies they needed at one time in one place.
“Great Falls and the surrounding areas are so very generous. They just are so willing to give to their fellow community members that may not be as fortunate as they are. There’s a lot of people that need things but they’re afraid to ask or maybe a little pride gets in the way, that happens. But we’re here for those people. We’re here for all of them,” Wiggers said.
Dozens of people volunteered for the event and free meals were provided throughout the day.
Guest speaker Paster Jeff Lauver from the Church of the Nazarene will speak at 7 p.m. and the pop rock band Stars Go Dim will then take the stage.
If you would like to volunteer for next year’s DownPour Community or donate supplies, please contact organizers through DownPour’s Facebook page.
For more information, you can also visit DownPour Community’s website.
