8,300 Trees Planted
Each $40 donation ensures 1 tree goes into the ground strengthening our urban canopy. You will receive a tax receipt for your donation/gift right away.
We encourage both you and your gift recipient to join us for the tree planting during the 2026 season. It’s free to attend, no experience is needed, and it’s a wonderful way to spend time together — which we think is one of the best perks of this gift!
How to dedicate your tree donation and send an e-card to your recipient
Shop Local!
This December, choosing to shop local is one of the simplest ways Barrie residents can make a meaningful environmental impact. When we buy from small, independent businesses—whether downtown, in our neighbourhoods, or at local markets—we reduce the carbon footprint tied to transportation, packaging, and large-scale distribution. Local makers and retailers tend to source more responsibly, use less wasteful packaging, and operate on a much smaller environmental footprint than big box chains. Every purchase helps keep dollars circulating within our community instead of flowing out to large corporations, strengthening Barrie’s local economy and helping small businesses thrive year-round.
It’s also the perfect season to rethink what we give. Experiences—like workshops, outings, classes, or gift cards to local cafés and restaurants—create memories without adding to the waste stream. Another meaningful option is to give the gift of repair: have a favourite shirt mended, get well-loved boots resoled at a local cobbler, or bring a treasured item to a nearby repair shop. These thoughtful gifts extend the life of what someone already loves while supporting local trades. And when you do choose tangible gifts, consider items that are durable, reusable, sustainably made, or handcrafted by local artisans. These choices lighten your environmental impact while supporting the entrepreneurs, creators, and service providers who make Barrie vibrant. This holiday season, let your gift-giving reflect the values that make our community strong: sustainability, connection, and local pride.
Celebrate Multicultural Holidays in Barrie: Shop Local & Give Thoughtfully This December.
December is a season of joy, reflection, and connection for many communities that do not celebrate Christmas. It’s also a chance to explore and support diverse local businesses, and celebrate the rich cultural diversity in our community. Whether you’re giving gifts, experiences, or acts of kindness, here’s a guide to some December holidays that can involve gift-giving—along with tips for keeping your celebrations local and sustainable.
Hanukkah (Jewish, dates vary in December)
Tradition: Exchange gifts over the eight days, often gelt (chocolate coins), books, or small tokens.
Shop Local Ideas: Buy locally made candles, artisanal chocolates, or handmade toys and games from Barrie shops.
Las Posadas (Mexican/Latin American, Dec 16–24)
Tradition: Celebrates community and hospitality; children may receive small gifts.
Shop Local Ideas: Support Barrie bakeries for traditional sweets, local crafters for piñatas or handmade decorations.
Winter Solstice / Yule (Pagan/Wiccan, Dec 21–22)
Tradition: Celebrate the longest night and return of the sun; gift-giving often includes handmade or nature-inspired items.
Shop Local Ideas: Handmade candles, herbal teas, or locally sourced artisan crafts.
Kwanzaa (Pan-Africanist, Dec 26–Jan 1)
Tradition: Gifts (Zawadi) celebrate personal growth, community, and culture.
Shop Local Ideas: Support local artisans for handcrafted items, educational toys, books, or unique cultural goods.
With Gratitude
We extend our sincere thanks to our key funders whose ongoing financial contributions make our work possible year-round. Your commitment enables us to continue planting trees and delivering vital education and awareness programs that inspire lasting environmental action in our community.
A special thank you to Jackie and her team for their steady guidance and encouragement—it’s been invaluable to our progress.
Together, we’re growing a greener future for Barrie—thank you.
Subscribe to get early notification, subscriber only posts and VIP discounts.
This website was made possible through the CSRF and the Government of Canada
