City gives families second chance: Barrie reinvests in reunification program

(Courtesy: John Howard Society)

The City of Barrie is giving families a chance to reconnect in the form of a renewed investment in a program that’s been helping individuals get back on their feet.

For the second year in a row, the City has provided funding to the Elizabeth Fry Society and John Howard Society to support their family reunification programs. Each organization will receive $5,000 to help cover transportation costs for individuals looking to reunite with family or support groups.

“Every person deserves the chance to reconnect with family and find stability,” stated Mayor Alex Nuttall.

The program first launched in 2023 with $10,000 in funding for each organization, and has already helped nearly 150 individuals reconnect with loved ones.

“By continuing to invest in programs like this, we’re helping people take meaningful steps toward rebuilding their lives and strengthening our community,” added Nuttall.

A news release issued Thursday emphasized both organizations have seen significant success with the program. The John Howard Society has been able to support 88 individuals in safely relocating to communities where they can access stability and support, according to John Howard Society executive director Hayley Murdoch-Fyke.

“Family connection is one of the strongest protective factors against reoffending,” said John Howard Society executive director Hayley Murdoch-Fyke. “This fund plays a vital role in helping individuals rebuild their lives by reconnecting with family and support networks after incarceration.”

The Elizabeth Fry Society also reports positive results, with 61 individuals able to return to their home communities and reconnect with family and support systems.

“This renewed investment ensures we can continue to remove barriers, promote stability, and reconnect people with the networks that help them thrive,” said executive director Meaghan Chambers.

The renewed funding comes as the city continues to address homelessness in the community.

According to data from the County of Simcoe’s Homeless Individuals and Families Information System, there were 619 people experiencing homelessness in Barrie as of Oct. 6. The mayor declared a state of emergency on Sept. 9 to address the growing number of encampments in Barrie and the city has since taken coordinated action to provide individuals with alternate shelter and supports.

The City says it will evaluate the program after a year and consider further funding.