Spring is here and so is the Barrie Food Bank’s Spring Forward - Give Back campaign.
The local food bank is aiming to collect 100,000 pounds of non-perishable food items by April, 30, with a $250,000 goal in place to support the continued growth of individuals in our community.
“As we welcome spring, many anticipate brighter days ahead. However, for thousands in our community, the season brings continued economic uncertainty and the challenge of securing basic necessities,” shared The Barrie Food Bank in a Monday release.
Serving 7,000 individuals each month, with a record number of first-time clients, seniors and large families, Karen Shuh, Executive Director of the Barrie Food Bank says 37 per cent of those served are children here in our region.
“Spring is a time of hope and renewal, but for many in our community, it’s also a season of struggle,” says Shuh. “We’re calling on our community to ‘Spring Forward to Give Back’ to help bridge the growing gap between need and supply. Every donation—big or small—ensures that families, seniors, and children have access to the food they need.
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- Locals, businesses, and community groups can take part in the campaign by:
-Making a monetary donation to Barrie Food Bank’s website or in person.
-Donating non-perishable food items at local grocery store donation bins.
-Organizing a food drive or fundraising event to further boost the campaign.
The most valuable donation items this year include: canned meats, cereal and oatmeal, peanut and nut butters, canned soups and stews, protein shakes, meal replacement shakes, healthy school snacks, pasta and pasta sauces. rice, lentils and legumes, baby items (large-sized diapers, wipes, formula and baby food), personal care items (shampoo, soap, deodorant, toilet paper.
All donations can be made online or can be mailed to P.O. Box 145, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4S9.
All in person donations can be dropped off at 42 Anne Street S., Unit 2, Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Non-perishable food donations can be made to the donation bins at major grocery stores, including Zehrs, No Frills, Metro, FreshCo, Food Basics, Sobeys, Farm Boy, Centra, Wholesale Club, and Costco.
