Barrie Police are once again collecting donations for the annual Mitten Tree campaign.
This year marks the 20th Anniversary of the initiative, which began with Constable Janet Schefter having a vision and goal inspired by a group of individuals who'd been struggling to stay warm throughout the winter months.
It was her goal to see that everyone in the community would be kept warm throughout the winter months, which led to the creation of the Mitten Tree.
Many families, including seniors, are faced with low income, high rent and everyday living expenses, and it can be a struggle to make ends meet. The need to help individuals stay warm within the community has continued to grow throughout the years.
The Mitten Tree is one of many holiday initiatives which allow members of the Barrie Police Service and the community to give back. Over 20,000 hats, mittens, gloves and scarves have been distributed to individuals of all ages, throughout the City of Barrie and surrounding area.
The success of the Mitten Tree can be attributed to the generosity of the community, local elementary schools and members of the Barrie Police Service.
The Mitten Trees continue to become more vibrant and erupt with vast donations of hats, mittens, gloves and scarves which have been donated to:
Out of the Cold
Youth Haven
David Busby Street Centre
The Women and Children's Shelter of Barrie
Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre and Addiction Services
CARAH House
Elizabeth Fry Society
Salvation Army Barrie
Hospice Simcoe
If you would like to donate to the Mitten Tree campaign, please visit the Barrie Police Service, at one of two locations, 29 Sperling Drive or 60 Bell Farm Road, Unit # 1, in the City of Barrie.
A big thank you to the Barrie Zehrs locations which are also accepting donations at all three locations:
607 Cundles Road East
11 Bryne Drive
620 Yonge Street
All donated items must be newly purchased for health reasons.
Donations will be accepted up until Thursday, December 20, 2018.
