Barrie Food Bank Launches “Spring Forward – Give Back” Campaign with Goal of Raising
$250,000 and 100,000 Pounds of Food to Meet Growing Demand
Barrie, ON – Today, Barrie Food Bank kicks off its “Spring Forward – Give Back” campaign, aiming
to raise $250,000 and collect 100,000 pounds of non-perishable food by April 30 to support the
increasing number of individuals and families in our community in need.
As we welcome spring, many anticipate brighter days ahead. However, for thousands in our
community, the season brings continued economic uncertainty and the challenge of securing
basic necessities. Barrie Food Bank is calling on the community to help bridge the growing gap
between available resources and the needs of our most vulnerable neighbours.
Rising Demand for Support
Barrie Food Bank currently serves 7,000 individuals each month, with a record number of first-
time clients, seniors, large families, and individuals seeking emergency food support. 37% of
those served are children. Financial donations will help provide essential items such as fresh
meat, dairy, produce, and to fill the gaps in non-perishable donations.
“Spring is a time of hope and renewal, but for many in our community, it’s also a season of
struggle,” says Executive Director Karen Shuh. “We’re calling on our community to ‘Spring
Forward to Give Back’ to help bridge the growing gap between need and supply. Every
donation—big or small—ensures that families, seniors, and children have access to the food
they need. Food banks can be part of the solution but we can’t do this alone. We are incredibly
grateful for the support of our community and together, we can ensure that no one goes hungry
during these challenging economic times.”
The Spring Campaign helps keep the shelves stocked throughout spring & summer.
How You Can Help
Individuals, businesses, and community groups can support the “Spring Forward – Give Back”
campaign by:
• Making a monetary donation via Barrie Food Bank’s website or in person.
• Donating non-perishable food items at local grocery store donation bins.
• Organizing a food drive or fundraising event to further boost the campaign.
For more details on how to contribute, visit www.barriefoodbank.org.
Most Needed Items
• Canned meats
• Cereal & oatmeal
• Peanut and Nut butters
• Canned soups & stews
• Protein shakes, meal replacement shakes
• Healthy school snacks
• Pasta & pasta sauces
• Rice, lentils & legumes
• Baby items (large-sized diapers, wipes, formula & baby food)
• Personal care items (shampoo, soap, deodorant, toilet paper)
Financial Donations:
• Online: Donations can be made securely at www.barriefoodbank.org.
• By Mail: Cheques can be mailed to P.O. Box 145, Barrie, Ontario L4M 4S9.
• In Person: Donations can be dropped off at 42 Anne Street S., Unit 2, Monday to Friday,
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Instant tax receipts are provided.
Drop-Off Locations
Non-perishable food donations can be made to the donation bins at major grocery stores,
including Zehrs, No Frills, Metro, FreshCo, Food Basics, Sobeys, Farm Boy, Centra, Wholesale
Club, and Costco. Many locations offer pre-packed donation bags containing high-need items for
easy giving. Food donations are also accepted directly at Barrie Food Bank at 42 Anne Street
South during regular business hours.
About Barrie Food Bank
Founded in 1984 on principles of community compassion, Barrie Food Bank has become a
steadfast source of support, dedicated to alleviating hunger in the Barrie area. With a vision of
“a community where no one is hungry,” we work alongside volunteers, donors, and community
partners to address the evolving challenges of food insecurity. Facing an unprecedented surge in
demand over the past two years, Barrie Food Bank remains committed to providing food relief
at no cost to families and individuals in need, helping them on their journey toward well-being.
