Barrie & District Christmas Cheer Organization

The Barrie & District Christmas Cheer Organization is a Canadian nonprofit organization that has been providing support to families in need during the Christmas season for over 50 years. It was founded in 1974 by Wayne Bjorgan, the station manager of CKBB Radio, who recognized the demand for food and toy donations for local families in need[2][3].

History

Initially, the organization supported 35 families during its first year of operation. Over time, it grew significantly under the leadership of Ernie Nullmeyer from the Barrie Minstrel Association. During his 28-year tenure, Christmas Cheer expanded to assist over 1,100 families in the Barrie area[1][2].

Since 2001, Peter Moore, President of Moore Packaging and Principal of PBM Realty, has made significant contributions to Christmas Cheer. Moore has donated thousands of cardboard boxes for Christmas package distribution and provided a 15,000-square-foot facility for the organization's activities at no cost[1][2].

Services and Impact

Today, the organization supports more than 1,800 families across Barrie, Innisfil, Essa, and Oro townships[1][4]. It relies heavily on volunteer support, with over 1,200 volunteers involved in collecting, sorting, and distributing donated items such as toys, clothes, and food[4].

Christmas Cheer provides essential assistance to families living on tight budgets, including grandparents raising grandchildren and young parents with small children. It also supports single parents and individuals facing financial challenges[5].

Community Engagement

The organization benefits from widespread community generosity. Businesses like Busch Systems actively participate by collecting and donating items for local families in need[4]. Christmas Cheer operates through various drop-off centers in the region, facilitating community participation and support[4].

The organization sets annual fundraising goals to continue its mission of providing a more fulfilling Christmas experience for those who otherwise might not be able to afford it[5].

[1] https://christmascheerbarrie.com/about-christmas-cheer/ [2] https://plumbtechplumbing.com/2021/11/30/five-things-you-need-to-know-about-barrie-district-christmas-cheer/ [3] https://www.ctvnews.ca/barrie/article/50-years-of-giving-the-gift-of-christmas/ [4] https://www.buschsystems.com/blog/news/the-barrie-district-christmas-cheer-foundation-giving-local-families-a-happy-holiday-season/ [5] https://christmascheerbarrie.com