The world went through one of its most serious crises in decades. (Covid 19) Barrie and Simcoe County shared the hardship. This is not the first time that we, as a community, have had to face a crisis (May 31,2025 is the fortieth anniversary of the Barrie Tornado) and unfortunately, it won’t be the last. The recent “Gratitude Project” sprung from one citizen’s desire to provide a comfort meal and a “thank-you” for front line health care workers at our regional hospital. It looked to find funding for 50 meals, and turned into more than 1400 – a community-wide outpouring of support that showed our support for our hospital, and also for the paramedics and long term care workers on the front-line of the local fight against the pandemic.
The Barrie Community Foundation took over the “Gratitude Project”, and asked, why stop there? Once over the initial period of isolation and separation, there will be individuals and organizations (the Food Bank, Shelters, even some small businesses) who will need help. And, unfortunately we will have to face these crises again in the future. Why not be prepared? So, our community foundation is going to complete the “Gratitude Project” by saying a thank-you to all those who are fighting for us. And, with your help, we will grow a fund that will be ready to establish a new footing emerging from Covid 19 and, if necessary and possible, to help us when we are called on to respond again.
A very generous member of our community has planted a seed for the new Fund with a wonderful donation of $5000. Please help us say thank-you to those who are working and risking so much, and help us build a fund for tomorrow. The fund that has been created now is called the “Vital Barrie Fund”. If you would like to help, click on its link and make your tax deductible donation.