The Barrie Food Bank has launched its Thanksgiving campaign as the need for its services continues to grow.
The food bank is serving over 7,500 individuals each month, according to a news release from the organization, which is a six-fold increase since 2020. Children and seniors now account for 44 per cent of those supported.
The agency says this year's campaign comes at a particularly urgent time.
"Earlier this month, the City of Barrie declared a state of emergency over the lack of affordable and geared-to-income housing, a crisis that is driving more families than ever to seek food support," the news release stated.
Karen Shuh, executive director of the Barrie Food Bank, said in a statement that they are profoundly grateful to the the community.
"Every donation is an act of kindness that helps transform worry into relief for families who are struggling. Just last week, we met a single mom of three who came to us heartbroken after paying her rent and having nothing left for groceries. Thanks to the generosity of donors, she left with enough food to get through the week and a little more hope. That's the power of giving."
Despite the generosity, the food bank says the need is currently greater than the donations coming in, which has meant prioritizing, focusing first on staples like milk, eggs, protein, and fresh produce, and scaling back on extras like personal care products and specialty items when funds run short.
Community members can support the campaign by making a financial contribution, donating non-perishable food items, or organizing a workplace or school food drive.
The food bank explains that financial contributions are especially impactful, as this allows the organization to purchase what is needed.
As part of the campaign, the Barrie Food Bank is inviting the community to a public open house on Saturday, Sept. 20, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at 42. Anne St. S.
The agency says guests will get a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, see how food moves from donation to distribution, and witness the incredible impact that community generosity through food, funds, and volunteer hours is making for local families.
