Since its inception in March 2020, Barrie Families Unite (BFU) continues to evolve with the growing needs of the community.
What started as a way for residents of Barrie to connect on Facebook during one of the most challenging and strangest times has evolved into much-needed partnerships with several local agencies.
The group hosts an open house this week for community leaders and partners to showcase their good work.
Founder Nikki Glahn says some people don't have a complete picture of all the different services and programs they run.
During the open house, she hopes to showcase and clear up any misconceptions people have about the charity's work.
The registered non profit organization is involved with other charities including seasonal clothing drives, and laundry programs. The also help provide good food boxes filled with fresh produce to low-income families.
PODCAST: We get an update from Barrie Families Unite Founder Nikki Glahn (and more local news)
"We do seasonal clothing, support, and situational crisis aid for people going through those little blips in time where they need some extra support." Glahn explains.
"Getting their household started again, for example, if they've fled an abusive situation, or they're transitioning from a shelter to their own home and need some of those items to get them started."
Glahn says they offer support in addition to what other agencies are doing.
"Our role is helping them with some tangible items they need to stretch the budget. Things like getting their kids winter outerwear, or providing some groceries between Food Bank orders," she explains.
Looking back at when BFU started, Glahn says she didn't think the group would evolve so quickly.
Fast forward to today, and the BFU is needed as much as it was in 2020.
"It's no secret that inflation has risen, the cost of everything is rising" she says.
"People's ODSP checks, and OW checks have not increased accordingly."
"So, everyone's budgets are stretched. There's a huge rise in basic needs like groceries and ensuring their kids are properly clothed for the seasons."
Anyone interested in learning more about Barrie Families Unite can head to barriefamiliesunite.com
