For over 52 years, supporting people who need a little extra help at Christmas
We are a registered charity run by a volunteer board, coordinating Christmas giving across our community.
Where it all began
In the 1960s and early 70s, CKBB Radio received dozens of calls every December from charities looking for food and toys for families in need. General Manager Wayne Bjorgan saw that the region needed one coordinated effort. He created the Christmas Cheer name and set aside a room at the station where the first families applied in 1974.
As demand grew, Ernie Nullmeyer of the Barrie Minstrel Association stepped up to lead. Over 28 years he oversaw moves to the Army Navy Air Force building, the Barrie Armouries and the Barrie Event Centre, and Christmas Cheer grew to serve more than a thousand families. He became known as Mr. Christmas.
Since 2001, Peter Moore's Moore Packaging has made and donated the boxes our Christmas packages go home in. In 2011 his company PBM Realty donated warehouse space, and by 2013 Christmas Cheer had a permanent, year-round home free of charge: the 15,000 square foot warehouse on Truman Road. We lovingly call him Saint Peter.
Our story so far
CKBB Radio brings local charities together under one name, Christmas Cheer.
Ernie Nullmeyer, "Mr. Christmas", leads through three moves and years of growth.
Moore Packaging starts donating every Christmas box.
PBM Realty gives us a permanent home on Truman Road, free of charge.
50 Years of Giving
Be part of the next 50 years.
Give, volunteer or host a drive. Every bit of help brings a family a Christmas.