Diocese of Toronto St. Margaret home

Social Outreach

We have members of our community approach us at St. Margaret's requesting our assistance for food to tide them over until the end of the month or until they can get appointments with other organizations. We want to assist those in our community who are in immediate need of food. We are asking that you consider bringing just one or two items: canned goods, tea, instant coffee, cereal, peanut free snacks, etc. to church each month to assist. That way we can have a supply on hand to help those who are in desperate need. We know the present situation is challenging for most families but anything our congregation can do to improve life for those most seriously in need will be greatly appreciated. Thank you for your assistance with this initiative. We will still have our Food Bank program running on the first Sunday of the month.

Little Food Pantry

Little Food Pantries are available at Saint Margaret’s and Trinity and operate in partnership with the Food Bank. Located outside the churches, the pantries provide food relief for the economically insecure in our surrounding parishes. Donations are always welcome and suggested food items are Winter safe: Granola bars, Oatmeal packages / Dry cereal packs, Macaroni & Cheese (Kraft Dinner), Seasoned dry pasta or rice (Sidekicks, Knorr), Dry soup mixes, Canned meat (in oil), Hot drinks: tea, coffee, hot chocolate, Dry noodle soup, Crackers, Cookies, Beef jerky, Peanut butter.

Knock Your Socks Off

where we are collecting socks, underwear, hats, mitts, etc. for those in need. Any donations are greatly appreciated. A bin is at the front door. Many thanks.

Blankets, etc.

We are also collecting warm blankets, sleeping bags, tents to help shelter those out in the cold.

Give with your Heart for Valentines Day

Our Sunday school children have made hearts which are on the window in the Narthex. On the back of the hearts are items for the foodbank/deacon’s cupboard. If you would like to take part, just remove a heart from the window and buy the item(s) listed on the back and return to the church by Feb. 12th . If you have questions please speak to Bill Goodyer. Thank you.

Barrie Food Bank

Each month we ask you to provide donations to the food-bank. Of course donations are needed and very welcome at any time.

For more information on this program please speak with Al McPhee.

Faith Works

A unique partnership of clergy and laity, Faithworks supports the Toronto Diocesan Mission Statement to embody God's love, justice, compassion and liberation in action by seeking and distributing funds from individuals and parishes for the delivery of direct, practical assistance to people in need or at risk in the Diocese. Community ministries supported by Faithworks are located across the Diocese of Toronto and include the David Busby Street Centre and Samaritan House here in Barrie. Faithworks is a living, viable example of how our faith in action can work to bring a better life for those in our community in need.

David Busby Street Centre

Located at...

88 Mulcaster St, Barrie, ON L4M 3M5.(entrance on McDonald Street) Phone: 705-739-6916

The individuals and families using services of the David Busby Street Centre are often suffering from poor health, social isolation, complex mental health concerns, physical, cognitive and social challenges, and the devastating impact of violence and abuse. Service delivery is based on a non-judgmental acceptance of, and respect for, anyone who accesses our facility. The drop-in support centre is the core of our support. The services offered include:

  • Individual case counselling
  • Housing support
  • Practical & basic needs assistance
  • Administrative support
  • Addiction support
  • Infant needs & supplies
  • Health care services
  • Mental health services
  • Harm reduction services
  • Mobile outreach
  • Central Intake for Barrie Out of The Cold

The David Busby Street Centre has a long-standing relationships with other service delivery organizations in Simcoe County and, when not available at the Busby Centre, our team is equipped to advocate for and link participants to the appropriate social services and resources in the larger community.

Samaritan House Community Ministry

Samaritan House is an ecumenical Ministry offering Christian support services for adults and children. Families who have been affected by poverty or violence are empowered to become self-sufficient through counselling, education and other Community Events. Samaritan House has a women and children's drop-in, providing clothing and household items, crisis intervention and advocacy, at Burton United Church. Samaritan House also offers computer training, a weekly children's literacy program and assists youth referred by Community and Social Services within the justice system. Future plans include the development of Transitional (Safe) Housing and Community Events for women and children.

Could you help a child improve their reading?

Samaritan House Community Ministries is looking for volunteers to help with their Literacy Program. The commitment is after school one day a week during the regular school year (October to May). If you are interested please contact SHCM at pager 705-720-7111 or email at shbarrie@gmail.com. High school students requiring community hours are most welcome to volunteer.

Clothing (men's and infant wear) are urgently needed...

for the Samaritan House Clothing Depot Centre, as well as financial support for the Transitional (Safe) Housing Project. You can drop off donations from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday at the SHCM Resourse Centre, in the basement of Burton Ave. United Church at 37 Burton Ave.

For more information, send email to shbarrie@gmail.com or call (705) 720-7111 Location: 37 Burton Avenue, Burton Avenue United Church (lower level).

Mini Meals

Trinity’s ACW organising mini-meals as a way of raising funds for Social Outreach. To place an order and arrange pick up, please contact Mae Harasymiw at 705-734-1888. The list of items include: Soups - Curried (mild) Cauliflower, Bean & Bacon, Beef Barley, Asparagus, and Tomato Basil. 6 inch Meat Pie, 4 inch Meat Pie, Shepherd's Pie, Meat Balls (4), Tomato Veggie Sauce, Meat Loaf, Lasagna (serving for 2), Spaghetti Sauce with meat (pint).

Leprosy Stamps

We are still collecting stamps for the Leprosy Mission. Stamps can be placed in the bag hanging on the bulletin board in front of the office.

Food Bank and Deacon's Cupboard

is located inside Saint Margaret’s church. This longstanding ministry is made possible by donations. We collect food and other necessary items; e.g., toothbrushes, tooth paste, soap, sanitary products. For more information, please contact Beth Steffler: beth.steffler@bell.net

Canadian Tire

Yes, your Canadian Tire money would be much appreciated.

"They gave to anyone as he had need" Acts2:45