NEWS RELEASE
BARRIE & DISTRICT CHRISTMAS CHEER
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On the evening of Oct. 8, 2024, Barrie & District Christmas Cheer held an event to announce the official launch of its 2024 campaign, marking a special milestone as the organization celebrates its 50th anniversary.
Founded in 1974, Christmas Cheer had humble beginnings supporting just 35 local families during the holiday season. Half a century later, that number has grown exponentially, with the 2024 campaign aiming to serve 1,860 families in need of a little extra help at Christmas time.
To address the increased demand, driven by rising inflation impacting families across our region, Christmas Cheer has set an ambitious fundraising target of $450,000 for 2024.
With needs growing in Barrie, Innisfil, Angus, Springwater and Oro-Medonte, the organization is counting on the strength and generosity of the community to meet this critical goal and ensure support for those who need it most.
“Christmas miracles happen when communities come together,” said Sandra Yaquo, president of Barrie & District Christmas Cheer. “Right now, a family of four is spending over $700 more annually on groceries, and many families are feeling the strain of rising living costs.
"We’re calling on the community to come together and help ensure that every family can experience the magic of Christmas this year.”
Monetary donations continue to be the most impactful way to give, ensuring funds can be allocated where they’re most needed, utilizing the buying power that the organization has and the relationships they’ve built with toy distributors and local grocers.
Donations can be made online at www.ChristmasCheerBarrie.com.
Additionally, the Christmas Cheer warehouse located at 49 Truman Rd., Barrie, will be opening soon to accept donations of food and unwrapped toys, which are always appreciated.
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