Local Charity Delivers Essentials to Over 8,700 Families in Halton

In a bustling warehouse in Oakville, SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities is turning donations into vital support for families facing hardship. This local charity is dedicated to providing essential items such as clothing, housewares, and diapers at no cost, addressing the urgent needs of vulnerable individuals and families in the region.

Founded in 2006 by Executive Director Bill Shields, who has three decades of experience in social services, SafetyNet operates under a distinct model. Unlike many organizations that sell donated items to generate revenue, SafetyNet distributes them for free. “We give it away free. Clothing, housewares, diapers. It’s all provided free to families,” Shields explained.

Since its inception, SafetyNet has assisted over 8,700 families, receiving daily donations ranging from 1,500 to 2,000 pounds of clothing. Support from retail partners like Vans, Osh Kosh, and The Gap ensures a steady supply of goods to meet the growing demand in the community.

As homelessness increases in Oakville, the charity has seen a rise in the number of people seeking assistance. Shields noted that the rate of homelessness has escalated, with reports of six to seven homeless individuals entering their facility each day. “When we first opened, we would see one to three homeless people a week,” he remarked. “Every day we get three to five new families that will register.”

The challenges faced by these families are multi-faceted, including deep income poverty, chronic homelessness, and food insecurity. To address these issues effectively, SafetyNet not only provides essential items but also offers educational support through tutoring programs. “We tutor between 80 to 100 children every year,” Shields stated. This one-on-one assistance aims to break the cycle of poverty by emphasizing the importance of education.

Families seeking support can apply via the charity’s website. Following an assessment of their financial situation, they can schedule an appointment to visit the location and select items. “We accommodate two to three families per hour,” Shields noted, allowing ample time for families to shop from a range of high-quality clothing and housewares. On average, SafetyNet distributes 1,500 free pieces of clothing daily.

Supported by over 130 volunteers, the organization meticulously sorts through donations to ensure quality. Items that do not meet standards are recycled, minimizing waste. Donations are accepted at their location at 166 South Service Road East, behind the former Hiker’s Haven, during weekdays from 09:00 to 16:00 and weekends from 09:00 to 13:00.

For more information on how to donate or access services, visit SafetyNet Children and Youth Charities online at www.safetynetservices.ca. By contributing, individuals can play a vital role in helping those in need within the Halton region.