DONATE
Help us create a
community where
no one is hungry.
More people are facing hunger for the first time.
You can help ensure they have food and supplies to safely support themselves in this challenging time. Make a secure donation to Barrie Food Bank today to take action against food insecurity.
Every $5 provides a parent and child with a nutritious meal.
Jessica's Story - Life Changed Overnight: A Mother’s Struggle with Food Insecurity
My husband and I used to take turns reading to our kids every night, always making sure they felt safe and cared for. But after he passed away so suddenly, my life turned upside down. I never expected to face this alone, especially with three little ones looking up at me. And as much as I want to give them stability, the truth is, it’s hard to keep food on the table.
When my husband was here, we managed. His income, combined with mine, gave us just enough to cover our needs. Prices kept going up, from groceries to gas to rent. I used to watch every dollar, but now I feel like I have to watch every single cent.
There’s a weight I carry as a mother, wanting to protect my kids from feeling this struggle. I’ve started cutting back in ways I never imagined—making a simple meal stretch, skipping my own meals here and there. I want them to be able to enjoy their childhood, without knowing the worry that fills my mind every day.
Barrie Food Bank has been a lifeline for us. At first, I was nervous, even ashamed, to ask for help. But when I walked through those doors, I realized I wasn’t alone. The kindness there, the dignity they provide… it’s not just food; it’s knowing someone cares and wants to see us get through this without judgment. My children can eat healthy meals, and I can take a breath knowing I can give them something nourishing.
Without the food bank, I don’t know how we’d make it. This isn’t the life I had planned, and while this isn’t my forever, I know I’m forever changed. I look forward to a day when I can give back to my community, as much as they’ve given to my family.
If you’re reading this, I hope you know that your support changes lives. It’s not just about food on a plate; it’s about giving families like mine a little more strength, a little more hope, to fill the gap. Thank you for being there for us.
Giving to Barrie Food Bank
Let’s Answer Your Questions!
How does the Barrie Food Bank use my donation?
Your donation will helps provide a variety of foods to those visiting us due to food insecurity. Visitors receive staple goods, fresh produce, baby food, school snacks, dairy products and culturally sensitive choices. Donations also support our direct-to-client programs like Monthly Food Hampers, School Fuel, Little Pantries, ‘Make & Take’ Cooking Classes, and our delivery and emergency food programs.
For every $1 you donate, 96 cents goes directly to food services and client programs, and 4 cents helps Barrie Food Bank ensure our efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability through fundraising and administration.
Is donating online secure?
Your donation is 100% secure. We use industry-standard software to encrypt and process all your donation information. We do not share your data with any third parties.
Will I get a tax receipt for my donation?
Yes. One-time donations made online will receive an automatic email with an attached tax receipt at the email address you provide. Monthly donations in a calendar year will be collated into one consolidated receipt and mailed to you in February of the following year. Donations sent in the mail will be receipted when received and sent out in the mail within five business days, posted to the address provided.
Charity Number:106962251RR0001
How can I donate food?
Non-perishable Food Donations: We accept food donations IN PERSON at the food bank.
Food donations can be delivered to us Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4pm, at:
42 Anne St., South
Unit 2
Barrie, ON.
Please come through the gates, around to our back door, behind Pioneer Pools. Ring the doorbell if we don’t see you coming!
or
Items can be dropped off at Barrie Food Bank donation bins located in every local grocery store including Zehrs, NoFrills, Costco, Metro, Freshco, Food Basics, Sobey’s, Centra, Walmart and the Wholesale Club.
For large donations (1/2 pallet or more) we can arrange a pick-up. Please email john@barriefoodbank.org to arrange a pick-up day and time.
For a list of most needed items see HERE.
If you have any question, please don’t hesitate to contact us: 705-725-1818 ext. 221
Can I contribute gifts in kind, securities, or through my estate?
Absolutely, thank you! These are all generous and impactful ways to make a difference. Donating publicly traded stocks, bonds, or mutual funds is a tax-effective option that allows you to avoid capital gains taxes while maximizing the value of your gift. You can also explore planned or legacy giving to make a lasting impact in our community.
For assistance with gifts in kind, gifts of securities, or estate contributions, please contact Hunter Markle, Manager of Fundraising & Donor Engagement, at hunter@barriefoodbank.org or (705) 725-1818 ext. 221.
Who can I contact with donation questions?
Please email hunter@barriefoodbank.org or contact Hunter Markle, Manager Fundraising & Donor Engagement at (705) 725 1818 ext 221.