Community called on for urgent help to support 2,100 families this holiday

Christmas is right around the corner, and many people are busy shopping for the perfect gifts to place under the tree. For others, the holidays bring stress and financial worry, which is why campaigns like Christmas Cheer aim to make a difference this season.

Community generosity is what keeps the Barrie and District Christmas Cheer campaign going strong to support 2,100 families this holiday season, and so far, it’s raised $220,250.

While that amount is impressive, it’s short of the $500,000 goal.

“Every day, we see more families reaching out for help, and it weighs heavily on our hearts,” shared Sandra Yaquo, president of Barrie and District Christmas Cheer. “I’m asking our community to come together once again to make Christmas miracles happen for so many families.”

Families from Barrie, Innisfil, Angus, Springwater, and Oro-Medonte continue to apply for assistance, feeling the pinch from rising living costs, especially groceries, which have become increasingly hard to afford.

Here’s how to help:

• Donate online
• Text ‘CHEER’ to 30333 to give on your mobile device

Christmas Cheer is now in its 51st year of giving and relies entirely on community generosity, local businesses, and corporate sponsors to brighten the holidays for families in need.

Each year, more than 1,200 volunteers help pack toy bags and food hampers for over 5,000 individuals.