Support for this local church is still going strong after nearly three decades. Ahead of the gala on Thursday, the community is invited to purchase a ticket with the proceeds supporting the church, located at 112 Collier Street in Barrie. “Over the past 29 years, I’m going to ballpark that we raised more than $400,000,” says Laurie Crosson, gala co-chair. “The money raised will also go to support outreach programs so we support people that are unhoused in our community, people that are food insecure - we help a lot of different community groups as well,” added Crosson. Another important component of the fundraiser is the online silent auction. From tools to artwork, chinaware to puzzles and even gift certificates, there’s something for everyone. All money raised supports the church and its programs. “We get lots of furniture - really good, quality furniture,” said Crosson. The silent auction, which includes 591 donated items, will run until Sunday at noon. The menu for the gala dinner, prepared by Steve Harding, will be chicken marsala or pan-seared cod, parmesan potatoes, seasonal salad, vegetables, homemade brioche buns and homemade dessert. If you can’t make the formal setting, which runs from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m., there’s also a take-out option for dinner. The take-out menu doesn’t include the cod and costs $35, running from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. on Thursday. Gala tickets can be purchased here. Bid on silent auction items here. For more information, contact collierunited@rogers.com or call 705-722-2003.
