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Accessing affordable, high-quality produce isn't always easy ..., especially with today's rising inflation. Luckily, there are organizations like Barrie Good Food Box that find ways to help community members enjoy healthy food!
Barrie Good Food Box is a non-profit community buying program offered by the Canadian Mental Health Association. They purchase high-quality bulk produce at wholesale prices from Sanfilippo Wholesale in Collingwood.
"The wholesale pricing means it's always more affordable than the grocery store," says Jenna Zardo, Barrie Good Food Box Coordinator.
Community members pre-order the boxes each month. Volunteers then prepare and distribute boxes to reduce the cost of packaging and delivery. This offers a convenient and affordable option for people in the community to eat better.
Every box contains an assortment of fresh fruits and vegetables. Each month you'll typically receive:
- 2 pounds of carrots
- 2 pounds of onions
- 3 pounds of apples
- 10 pounds of potatoes
- 5 to 6 seasonal fruits and veggies
The goal is to get as much goodness packed into each box as possible.
The program is running out of the Barrie Free Methodist Church. "We operate through kind donations and a wonderful group of volunteers," says Zardo.
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You can buy a Good Food Box every month for $17 (Georgian College students pay $10).
All you have to do is place your order before the 1st Wednesday of the month. On the 2nd Wednesday of the month, you'll pick the box up at a convenient location.
Boxes that aren't picked up get donated. They go to local organizations that help people experiencing food insecurity. "You can also choose to Pay It Forward and buy a box for individuals or families experiencing food insecurity," says Zardo.
Barrie Good Food Box shares Pay It Forward boxes with:
- Canadian Mental Health Association
- The Women and Children's Shelter
- UPlift Black
- Youth Haven
- Barrie Native Friendship Centre
- Barrie Families Unite
- Redwood Park Communities
- And more organizations
If you're looking for well-priced high-quality produce, Good Food Box is here. To volunteer or make a donation, please contact the team at barriegoodfoodbox@gmail.com or 705-331-2392.
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