Local Charity Provides Free Essentials to Over 8,700 Families

In Oakville, Ontario, the community is benefiting from the compassionate efforts of SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities, a local organization that provides essential items free of charge to families in need. Founded in 2006 by Executive Director Bill Shields, the charity has transformed donated clothing and household goods into vital resources for over 8,700 families in the area.

Shields, who has dedicated three decades to social services, emphasizes the charity’s unique approach. “The main difference is that we give it away free,” he stated. Many organizations sell donated items to raise funds, but SafetyNet distributes essentials such as clothing, housewares, and diapers without charge. The demand for these services has surged, with the charity receiving between 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of clothing donations daily from corporate partners like Vans, Osh Kosh, and the Gap.

Addressing Growing Needs in the Community

The increase in homelessness in Oakville is a pressing issue. Shields notes that when SafetyNet first opened, they would see one to three homeless individuals weekly; now that number has risen to six or seven on some days. The charity registers three to five new families each day, highlighting the urgent need for support in the community.

Several factors contribute to the growing demand for assistance, including deep income poverty, unmet housing needs, chronic homelessness, and food insecurity. SafetyNet relies heavily on community donations to provide wrap-around services for families facing these challenges. In addition to distributing essentials, the charity offers tutoring services for at-risk youth, aiming to break the cycle of poverty through education. “We tutor between 80 to 100 children every year,” Shields explained. “The one-on-one tutoring helps emphasize the importance of education.”

Families seeking assistance can apply through the SafetyNet website. After a financial assessment, they can schedule an appointment to visit the charity. Shields mentioned, “We accommodate two to three families per hour,” allowing them to shop in a supportive environment filled with high-quality items.

Community Support and Sustainability Efforts

With the help of over 130 volunteers, SafetyNet sorts through donations daily to ensure quality. Any items that do not meet the standards are recycled, demonstrating the organization’s commitment to sustainability and minimizing waste. “Nothing goes into landfills,” Shields affirmed.

Donations can be made at SafetyNet’s location at 166 South Service Road East, behind the former Hiker’s Haven, on weekdays from 09:00 to 16:00 and weekends from 09:00 to 13:00. The community is encouraged to contribute used clothing and household items, which can be transformed into essential services for those in need.

For more information about SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities and how to support their mission, visit their website at www.safetynetservices.ca. The organization’s work underscores the power of community compassion in addressing the pressing needs of vulnerable families.