Salvation Army Supports Barrie Residents Affected by Tornado

Donations are pouring in from the community as residents of southeast Barrie deal with the aftermath of a strong tornado that struck the city yesterday.

Not long after the tornado touched down, concerned citizens began dropping off water, food, clothing, toiletries, and other items to Saint Gabriel Catholic School.

The outpouring of donations has overwhelmed the school and the City of Barrie is asking that no more items be dropped off at this time.

“The gym at the school is basically filled with donations so the community has responded with amazing generosity,” said Major Stephanie Watkinson, Executive Director of The Salvation Army Barrie Bayside Mission Centre.

The Salvation Army will be sorting and handling distribution of the donated items to those impacted by the tornado.

Watkinson said The Salvation Army is prepared to assist by providing clothing or household items at no cost to those affected. There are also two hotels that The Salvation Army can access to provide shelter to affected homeowners, if required.

Barrie restaurants have also stepped up to drop off meals and drinks for residents and first responders.

There were no reported deaths from the tornado, but 11 people were injured. Yesterday’s confirmed F2 tornado heavily damaged about 65 homes along Mapleview Drive East around 2:30 p.m. Hundreds more homes sustained lighter damage and at least three homes were destroyed. First responders went door to door last night to search for residents.

Monetary donations to a tornado relief fund can be made at The Salvation Army’s location at 16 Bayfield Street in Barrie.

Online donations can also be made to support those affected at www.salvationarmy.ca/barriebaysidemission. 

By Chris McGregor