Barrie Food Bank launches Thanksgiving drive tomorrow

NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE FOOD BANK
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The Barrie Food Bank’s Thanksgiving Food and Financial Drive kicks off Sept. 21 and runs until the end of October.

Sadly, the need in our community has never been greater. The number of households served at the food bank in August was up 60 per cent over last August.

Over 3,000 individuals were provided food assistance last month.

“We are seeing more families with children, refugees, and those experiencing homelessness coming to the Food Bank for help,” says Sharon Palmer, executive director.

The goal for this food drive is to raise 150,000 pounds of food and $150,000.00 by the end of October.

The Barrie Food Bank provides food relief to individuals and families in our community who are in need, and supports them on their journey towards well-being. They provide monthly food hampers, emergency bags, and support eight Little Food Pantries in the community. They also offer ready-to-eat food and water to those without a home.

Palmer says: “Financial donations allow the food bank to purchase produce, dairy and meat and replenish staples as we need them. Thanks to the local grocery stores who support us with great prices, we can make your dollar go further.”

Online donations can be made at 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. Tax receipts are provided.

Once again, the food bank is accepting food donations. The most needed food Items at this time are: Canned tomatoes, pasta, and pasta sauce, peanut butter, canned tuna, ham and chicken, soups, stews, cereal, coffee, and school snacks such as granola bars.

We also need personal hygiene items such as body wash, shampoo, toothpaste, and feminine hygiene products and size 4,5,6 diapers.

Food Drop Off Points:

You can find food collection bins at these local grocery stores: Zehrs, Loblaws, No Frills, Metro, FreshCo, Food Basics, Sobeys, Wholesale Club. Many stores also sell pre-packed bags to make it easy for you! You can also drop off items at the Barrie Food Bank at 42 Anne St. S., Unit 2 behind Pioneer Family Pools. (Entrance for food donations is located at the end of Army, Navy, Airforce Drive.) We accept food donations Monday to Friday 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

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