Supporting Our Local Community
GBF Community Services is a registered nonprofit organization. For more than 56 years, we have been providing programs that support low-income households in Grimsby, ON.
Our Mission
GBF Community Services provides assistance to members of our community to meet their basic needs and to achieve self-sufficiency.
Vision Statement
To improve the quality of life in our community by providing compassionate support and material assistance.
From the Desk of our CEO
It's all about the power of one. One caring person such as you, one volunteer, one staff member, one donation… one genuine act of kindness. But those “ones”, when multiplied by compassion of hundreds of others, are making all the difference in the lives of our neighbors in need of…
How We Started
GBF Community Services was founded by the late Mike Barretto. He was a committed volunteer and entrepreneur. In creating the Grimsby Benevolent Fund (GBF), Mike fulfilled his vision of bringing together the benevolent efforts of several organizations in Grimsby.
From the Desk of our CEO
It's all about the power of one. One caring person such as you, one volunteer, one staff member, one donation… one genuine act of kindness. But those “ones”, when multiplied by compassion of hundreds of others, are making all the difference in the lives of our neighbors in need of…
Selling for a Cause
We evolved from a Christmas Hamper program in 1965 to a food bank, clothing, and houseware store. Additionally, we established the Used Furniture Warehouse in 1992. The revenues that our store and warehouse generate help fund our many ongoing and upcoming projects.
A Legacy To Remember
2005 marked the 40th year that GBF Community Services has made a difference to different individuals and families. Our community is indebted to the foresight of Mike Barretto and our many faithful volunteers over the years.
Company Values
Our team consists of benevolent volunteers and staff members that strive to imbibe the following principles in each service we provide:
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A strong sense of social responsibility
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A commitment to serving our clients with respect and compassion
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A belief in the unique abilities, strengths, and gifts of each person
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A belief in the capacity of people to grow, change, and care for themselves and one another
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A commitment to professionalism, ethical conduct, and integrity of service delivery
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A recognition of the importance of volunteerism and citizen participation in the community
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A dedication to research, education, and advocacy
Our Team
Our Board of Directors
The GBF Community Services Board of Directors comprises knowledgeable professionals who are committed to helping those we serve. Our Board of Directors governs GBF by applying their expertise and business acumen as they lead, achieve excellence in financial responsibility, and ensure accountability to the public.
Along with our staff and volunteers, our board of directors is influential in helping GBF Community Services operate.
Please see our Board of Director's 2021-2023 Strategic Plan HERE
President
Irene Podolak
Treasurer
Robert Paul
Recording Secretary
Justin Cruse
Directors
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Frank Barretto
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Linda Rowlison
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Leanne Sidorkewicz
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Jamie Stevens
Connect With Us
Learn more about what we do by reaching out to one of our team members.