Barrie Food Bank Announces Retirement of Executive Director

IMMEDIATE RELEASE – Barrie Food Bank Announces Retirement of Executive Director Barrie, June 4, 2024 – Barrie Food Bank, today announced the retirement of Executive Director, Sharon Palmer, effective August 30. Sharon Palmer has served as the driving force behind Barrie Food Bank’s mission for more than three years, leading the organization through a period of remarkable growth and change. Under her leadership, the charity has transitioned from pre-bagged groceries to a self-service shopping model. The new system allows those who need food support to choose items based on dietary needs, family size and composition, and the Food Banks resources. The model reduces food waste and adds more dignity to the experience. Most recently, Sharon led the organization to achieve Food Banks Canada’s “Standards of Excellence” accreditation – the first food bank in Ontario to achieve this high level of performance on Operations, Governance and Administration, Client Care, Health and Safety, Food Safety, Fundraising, and Marketing and Communications. Reflecting on her tenure, Sharon expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the community through her role. “It has been an honour to work at the Barrie Food Bank and witness the incredible support of the community. This community continually comes through to support those who need food. I am proud of what the team of staff and volunteers have accomplished and confident in the organization’s continued success.” Ab Falconi, Chair of the Board of Directors, expressed gratitude for Sharon’s leadership and outlined the next steps for the organization. “Sharon leaves behind a legacy of compassion, dedication, impact and excellence. We are immensely grateful for her exemplary service and wish her all the best in her retirement. The Board is committed to ensuring a smooth transition and continuing to advance the important work of Barrie Food Bank.” The Board of Directors of Barrie Food Bank has begun a comprehensive search for a new Executive Director to continue to move the organization forward. For more information about Barrie Food Bank, please visit barriefoodbank.org.