NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE FOOD BANK
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Today, Barrie Food Bank kicks off its holiday campaign, Fill the Gap, with the goal to raise $1 million and collect 300,000 pounds of non-perishable food by Dec. 31, 2024.
With rising demand across the community, this year’s campaign focuses on closing the growing gap between what the community can provide and what families in Barrie desperately need, ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food and essential supplies throughout the holiday season and into the new year.
This year, Barrie Food Bank supports over 7,000 individuals each month, with a record-breaking number of first-time users, large families, seniors, and those needing emergency food support.
Of the clients served, 37 per cent are children. As more families turn to Barrie Food Bank, every dollar and food item donated directly supports those struggling to put food on their tables.
Contributions will fund essential, high-demand items, such as fresh meat, dairy, and produce, and fill gaps in pantry staples.
“While we’ve made tremendous strides in providing for those in need, the gap between what we can offer and the growing need has widened,” says executive director Karen Shuh. “Rising costs, unexpected expenses, and the challenges of the season make it harder for many in our community to secure even the basics. But together, we can change this.”
In response to the call for support, Barrie Food Bank is thrilled to announce that two generous local partners, the Faris Team and the Aerarium Group, have stepped up to help bridge the gap with a combined $80,000 matching pledge. Running from Nov. 12 to 30, this pledge will double the impact of every community donation and help reach even more families in need.
Individuals, businesses and community members can help ‘fill the gap’ by:
- Making a monetary donation via Barrie Food Bank’s website or by visiting in person
- Donating non-perishable food items at collection points located throughout Barrie
- Registering for a food drive or organizing a fundraising event to further boost the campaign
Information on how to donate or get involved, visit www.barriefoodbank.org.
Most needed items: canned meats, cereal, nut butters, canned soups, stews, protein shakes, healthy school snacks, pasta and pasta sauces, rice, lentils, baby items (large-sized diapers, wipes, formula and baby food) and personal care items (shampoo, soap, deodorant).
Financial donations: Online donations can be made at www.barriefoodbank.org or cheques can be mailed to P.O. Box 145, Barrie, Ont., L4M 4S9, or delivered to 42 Anne St. S., Unit 2, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Instant tax receipts are provided.
Drop-off points: Local grocery stores, including Zehrs, No Frills, Metro, FreshCo, Food Basics, Sobeys, Farm Boy, Centra, Wholesale Club and Costco, are collection points. Many stores also offer pre-packed donation bags with high-need items for easy giving.
You can also drop off non-perishable items directly to Barrie Food Bank at 42 Anne St. S. Food donations are accepted Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
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