This holiday season, the City of Barrie is transforming parking violations into opportunities for community generosity. Instead of digging into your wallet to pay that parking ticket, you can now reach into your pantry and make a difference for local families facing food insecurity.
A Seasonal Second Chance
The innovative "Food for Fines" program has returned to Barrie, allowing residents to clear eligible parking tickets by donating non-perishable food items. From December 1st through January 5th, drivers can exchange their parking frustrations for festive goodwill.
How the Program Works
The process is beautifully simple: for each non-perishable food item donated, the city will waive $5 from your outstanding parking ticket balance. There's a limit of two tickets per person that can be cleared through this charitable initiative, making it accessible to multiple community members.
What You Need to Know
- Eligible Tickets: Only parking violation notices issued between December 1 and January 5 qualify
- Donation Value: Each food item equals $5 toward your fine
- Maximum Benefit: Clear up to two parking tickets per person
- Donation Location: Barrie City Hall during regular business hours
- Acceptable Items: Non-perishable, non-expired food in original packaging
Making a Real Impact
All collected donations will be distributed to the Barrie Food Bank, providing crucial support during what can be the most challenging time of year for many families. This program not only eases the burden on drivers but directly addresses food insecurity in our community.
"It's a win-win situation," says a city representative. "Residents get relief from parking fines while our community's most vulnerable members receive essential support. It embodies the true spirit of the holiday season."
Important Exceptions
While most standard parking violations are eligible, the program does exclude tickets issued for parking in accessible spaces without proper permits. This ensures that the program maintains fairness while encouraging widespread participation.
So before you grumble about that parking ticket, consider turning it into an opportunity to spread holiday cheer. Your canned goods could mean someone else's holiday meal.
