In response to the challenges posed by inflation and rising cost of food, Barrie and District Christmas Cheer says it has taken a "significant step" by adjusting its annual fundraising goal for the 2023 campaign.
The organization says last year marked the first increase in the fundraising target in more than 10 years, and this year they are setting a new goal of $400,000, which is an "essential" $120,000 boost compared to the previous year.
"The money we raise is typically only one-fourth of the value of what we actually distribute to families each year. We are very fortunate to have the support of local suppliers that afford us with significant value per donated dollar," Christmas Cheer president Stephane Quenneville said in a release. "But that dollar won’t stretch as far as it used to."
The organization says the decision to modify the fundraising target is a result of rising food prices in Canada, which surged by 5.9 per cent in September 2023 when compared to the same month in the previous year.
Organizers anticipate that these economic challenges will result in a surge in applications for assistance, making it imperative to elevate fundraising efforts to ensure that Christmas Cheer can continue its "vital mission of bringing joy and essential support to the community this Christmas."
The organization says it remains dedicated to ensuring that no one in their community goes without food on the table or toys under the tree this holiday season.
Christmas Cheer, which leverages the community to collect physical donations of food and toys to fill hampers for nearly 1,800 families, also heavily relies on monetary donations to help fill the need in the community.
In order to reach their new $400,000 fundraising goal, Christmas Cheer also says it will need to get an early start with fundraising efforts.
Despite the financial impact that inflation and rising interest rates have had on families, Christmas Cheer says it wants the community to know they are committed to providing food and toys for families in need this Christmas, but need the community’s help to make it happen.
For more information about Christmas Cheer, to donate or to find out how to set up a personal online fundraising page, visit its website at christmascheerbarrie.com.
