Local leaders take part in annual dip tank fundraiser in Barrie

Local leaders take part in annual dip tank fundraiser in Barrie

Local government leaders attended the annual ‘dunk your local leader’ event on Saturday.

The event took place at the Barrie Farmers Market, where Mayor Alex Nuttall and Deputy Mayor Robert Thompson participated in the charity dip.

During the event, money and food will be raised for Youth Haven, a shelter for homeless youth.

“Raising money to feed our youth and make sure they have a place to stay and stability and strength in what can be very difficult times for them is a wonderful thing. Our deputy mayor gets the lion’s share, but it was nice to have a free shower this morning,” said Barrie Mayor Alex Nuttall after participating in the dip tank event.

Youth Haven has raised $500,000 toward its $2 million goal for the renovation and expansion of the space.

“We are excited about the new building. We currently have rooms for 19 young people and the new centre will accommodate 31,” said Louise Jones, Director of Development at Youth Haven.

The shelter’s operators say they will begin renovations to the Wellington Street shelter before the end of 2024.