Barrie, ON – The Barrie Food Bank is pleased to announce that Karen Shuh will be stepping into the role of Executive Director, effective August 26. Karen will be reporting to the Board of Directors, and will succeed Sharon Palmer, who is retiring in early September.

Karen Shuh is no stranger to the Barrie Food Bank, having started as a volunteer in 2023. She quickly became a vital part of the operations team and later transitioned to the role of Manager, Fundraising and Donor Engagement last November. In this role, Karen made significant strides in enhancing the organization’s fundraising capabilities.

Karen brings over 25 years of experience in the consumer-packaged goods industry, with over seven years in leadership positions at the Director level. Her extensive background in strategic planning, budget management, and her exceptional communication and relationship-building skills make her well-equipped to lead the Barrie Food Bank as its new Executive Director.

“Stepping into the role of Executive Director is both an honor and a responsibility I am deeply committed to. I am inspired by the incredible dedication of our volunteers and the significant impact we have on our community. Together, we will continue to build on the strong foundation and road map laid out by Sharon, who will be greatly missed,” says Shuh.

Ab Falconi, Chair of the Board of Directors, shares his confidence in the new leadership: “The Barrie Food Bank has long been a leader in the social services community in Barrie and an innovator in the food bank space. We are confident that Karen will continue this focus to ensure we can support those in our community experiencing food insecurity.”