Barrie Families Unite, a local organization that helps people access essential needs, is pushing forward with momentum for its Doors to Dignity campaign.
The community-driven effort is to open a client-focused social enterprise thrift store in the city. The store, which aims to provide affordable clothing, has been gaining strong community support since the campaign launched earlier this year.
“The vision is resonating powerfully,” said Nikki Glahn, executive director and founder of Barrie Families Unite.
“Every presentation we’ve made — whether to business leaders, service agencies, or community groups — has been met with enthusiastic nods and strong agreement. People love the shift from a passive charity model to a client-centric, dignity-driven approach.”
Glahn said while large financial contributions have been slower than expected, early grassroots donations and pledges of support are helping to grow momentum.
“Local partners, agencies, and community members consistently tell us how needed and overdue this model is in Barrie,” she said.
“The sense of ‘yes, this is the future’ has been universal.”
Agencies and local families have welcomed the concept, which Glahn said is about more than apparel.
“Families are telling us that being able to shop for themselves — rather than receiving a pre-packed bundle — is about identity and autonomy,” she said.
“Agencies see how this will fill a major service gap for the families they support.”
The group is currently in the process of securing a location. The plan is to begin with a six month lease to pilot the store and build volunteer capacity, before moving into renovations for a grand opening in July 2026.
Glahn said the biggest hurdle so far has been locking down a physical space.
“Having a space is the key that unlocks everything else — major sponsorships, volunteer mobilization, community engagement, and ultimately, steady revenue. The vision is strong, the enthusiasm is real, and once we have a space, the campaign will accelerate quickly.”
