After 40 women have been displaced due to a fire at the Elizabeth Fry Society Simcoe Muskoka, the Barrie Chamber of Commerce is calling on the public for urgent donations. The Chamber has launched an emergency donation drive alerting of an immediate need for women’s clothing, hygiene products and non-perishable food and snacks. The Elizabeth Fry Society says in terms of clothing, it needs new underwear, socks and bras. Also needed is outwear such as winter coats, mittens, hats, shoes and winter boots. Monetary donations will also be accepted. Donations can be dropped off at the Barrie Chamber at 121 Commerce Park Drive, Unit A between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. They can also be dropped off at the Barrie Native Friendship Centre on Bayfield Street from Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. A fire tore through the Elizabeth Dry Society Simcoe Muskoka on Maple Avenue early Sunday morning. Four people were taken to the hospital for smoke inhalation. There were five firetrucks, plus a platoon chief on scene to fight the blaze. A 44-year-old woman is facing an arson charge in connection with the fire.
