Barrie Bayside Executive Director Honoured for Compassionate Community Support

by chrismcgregor
Categories: Divisional News
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After four years in Barrie, Major Stephanie Watkinson, the departing Executive Director of The Salvation Army Barrie Bayside Mission Centre, was recognized for her leadership following the tornado in the city last year. Maj. Stephanie is leaving the city for a position with The Salvation Army Corps in North Bay.

“It was very humbling and touching to be recognized. We do so much every day that you really don’t think anyone has taken notice, so it is nice to be rewarded and thanked for the work that The Salvation Army does quietly every day,” Major Watkinson said.

“Barrie is a welcoming and supportive community. I am going to miss the relationships and the partnerships that have been built over the last four years to support vulnerable people in need of assistance.”

Barrie Mayor Jeff Lehman presented gifts and a unique plaque to Major Watkinson as a thank you for coordinating a distribution centre to provide food, meals, drinks and other supplies and donations to residents affected by the July 2021 tornado.

The Barrie Bayside Mission Centre provides temporary emergency shelter for men and families in the community. Food and clothing support is available, along with skills programs, addiction treatment, identification clinics, employment preparation and other referrals to community agencies. Lunch and dinner are prepared seven days a week in Barrie through the Community Meal Program for those in need of a healthy and nutritious meal.

For more information or to donate to Barrie Bayside Mission Centre please visit www.salvationarmy.ca/baysidemission.