MARPAC Imaging Services launches a sweet fundraiser for NDWCC

Kate Bandura, 
Lookout Contributor 
— 

The Maritime Forces Pacific (MARPAC) Imaging Services team has kicked off an innovative fundraiser for the National Defence Workplace Charitable Campaign (NDWCC), offering a variety of freeze-dried fruits and candies to Defence Team members.

The NDWCC, part of the broader Government of Canada Workplace Charitable Campaign, provides federal public servants and retirees with a direct line to support over 86,500 charities, including many organizations with strong ties to Canada’s military community.

In the Esquimalt region, the NDWCC campaign is organized each fall in collaboration with United Way. It represents the local Defence Team’s commitment to making a positive social impact in their neighbourhoods and communities.

Sergeant (Sgt) Malcolm Byers, an NDWCC Ambassador within MARPAC HQ and the NDWCC Ambassador for MARPAC Imaging, encourages Defence Team members to participate in any way they can.

“I am constantly looking at alternate fundraising opportunities in my 5th year as NDWCC Ambassador,” Sgt Byers said. “We already have our yearly fall portraits and year-round depart with dignity portrait campaigns; interest in alternate preservation techniques has spiked in recent years.”

The freeze-dried treats offer a unique way to support the cause while indulging a sweet tooth or preparing for outdoor activities as they reduce carried weight. All items are sourced from a commercial freeze-drying facility in the Okanagan Valley and are guaranteed shelf-stable for at least six months when unopened.

Currently available items include mixed candy packs, Skittles, Nerd Gummy Clusters, and a variety of freeze-dried fruits such as peaches, mangoes, and strawberries. Pre-orders are accepted, with the next deadline set for Aug. 30 for Sept. 15 availability.

The fundraiser will run until at least December concurrently with MARPAC Imaging’s yearly fall NDWCC Portrait campaign. Interested individuals can taste and stock at MARPAC Imaging Services D25 during office hours. For more information or to place an order, Defence Team members can email Sgt Byers at malcolm.byers@forces.gc.ca or visit D25 in person.