SafetyNet Charity Delivers Free Essentials to Families in Need

In Oakville, a local charity is making a significant impact by providing free essentials to families facing financial hardships. SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities is dedicated to transforming donated clothing and household items into critical support for vulnerable individuals and families in the region. Founded in 2006 by Bill Shields, the organization has helped over 8,700 families access essential items such as clothing, housewares, and diapers without cost.

Shields, who has three decades of experience in social services, emphasizes the charity’s unique approach. “The main difference is that we give it away free,” he stated, highlighting that many organizations depend on selling donations to fund their operations. In contrast, SafetyNet focuses on direct distribution, ensuring families receive the items they need at no charge. Thanks to generous donations from the community and corporate partners, the charity receives between 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of clothing donations daily, including contributions from retail supporters like Vans, Osh Kosh, and Gap.

Rising Demand for Services

The demand for SafetyNet’s services has surged, reflecting broader social challenges in the Oakville area. “We’ve seen a real increase in homelessness in Oakville,” Shields explained. When the charity first opened, they encountered one to three homeless individuals each week. Currently, that number has increased to six or seven on some days. The charity also registers three to five new families daily, indicating a growing need for assistance.

Various factors contribute to this rising demand, including deep income poverty, housing shortages, chronic homelessness, unmet health needs, food insecurity, and insufficient education. SafetyNet aims to address these multifaceted issues through its wrap-around services, which are made possible by community donations.

In addition to providing clothing and household items, SafetyNet offers tutoring services aimed at children from financially disadvantaged families. “Our tutoring and music programs are available to children and youth whose families are suffering financially,” Shields noted. Each year, the charity tutors between 80 to 100 children, helping them break the cycle of poverty through education.

Families seeking support can apply through the charity’s website. After an assessment and verification of financial circumstances, they can schedule an appointment to visit the charity and select items. “We accommodate two to three families per hour,” Shields said, ensuring they have ample time to shop for high-quality essentials. The organization distributes approximately 1,500 free pieces of clothing each day.

Community Engagement and Sustainability

The success of SafetyNet relies heavily on the dedication of its volunteers. More than 130 volunteers assist with sorting donations and checking for quality, ensuring that all items meet the organization’s standards. Any items deemed unsuitable are recycled, reflecting the charity’s commitment to sustainability and minimizing waste.

SafetyNet accepts donations at its location at 166 South Service Road East, behind the old Hiker’s Haven in Oakville, on weekdays from 09:00 to 16:00 and weekends from 09:00 to 13:00. The charity encourages community members to turn their used clothing and household items into vital services for those in need.

For more information about SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities and how to contribute, visit their website at www.safetynetservices.ca. Through their efforts, the organization continues to provide crucial support to families in need, demonstrating the power of community compassion and engagement.