How We Help

Learn more about the programs and services we offer to help individuals set goals and to achieve success.

Drop-In Centre & Activities

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Employment Services & Support

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Housing & Homelessness

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Temporary Winter Shelters (TWS)

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Welcome to Start Me Up Niagara

At Start Me Up Niagara, we offer services and programs to support people facing significant challenges such as poverty, homelessness, unemployment, disabilities, addictions and mental health issues.

Our goal is to provide opportunities for these individuals to help them increase their level of self-sufficiency and improve their quality of life. Our services range from daily drop in, community lunches, health care, income maximization, arts, garden, housing supports and employment development.

Together, we are working to build a community where all are included.

About SMUN   Our Services

  • "Don’t be afraid to fail, the only failure you have is to not do it. Have a dream and start by walking through the doors at WAC; this is your first step!"
    - Lisa, WAC Participant
  • "The people at 17 Gale have been like a family to me."
    - Anonymous, Centre Participant
  • "The team at WAC encouraged me to keep doing it and keep going. You have to rely on supportive people to keep going."
    - Sita, WAC Participant
  • "The workshops have been so organized. There are real people here. They aren’t phony. They give us instructions and help us fill out the pages. A lot of organizations give you a pay and say give it back when you are done. Nobody says you can’t do it here. That’s what I love."
    - John, WAC Participant
  • "At almost 60 years of age, I find it difficult to remain optimistic insofar as gaining employment. Faye & Jennifer deserve special mention. Especially, Faye. She understands how looking for a job can be depressing and has, a number of times, picked me up when I was ready to throw in the towel."
    - Tricia, WAC Participant

A Place To Be Drop-In Details

Housing help, referrals, support and resources for people experiencing or are at risk of homelessness in Niagara. 

Our drop-in centre at 17 Gale Crescent is open Monday to Friday between 9AM to 11:15AM and 1:15PM to 3:15PM for those experiencing or are at risk of homelessness. COVID-19 safety protocols are in effect for your safety. 

 Location

17 Gale Crescent, ON L2R 3K8 (Map)

 Weekday Hours

Monday to Friday  |  9:00AM - 12PM, 1PM - 4PM

 Weekend Hours

Saturday and Sunday | 11:15AM to 1:00PM

How To Help

Our dedicated volunteers, donors and supporters are dedicated to our mission to support and provide opportunities for individuals facing hardships in Niagara. ​If you're interested in getting involved, there are many ways to help. 

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News & Updates

Stay connect with the latest news and updates from Start Me Up Niagara. 

Amalgamation of Niagara’s Mobile Closet and Start Me Up Niagara

Amalgamation of Niagara’s Mobile Closet and Start Me Up Niagara

Posted Nov 10th, 2022 in News & Updates

Start Me Up Niagara (SMUN) is very excited to announce the amalgamation of Niagara’s Mobile Closet (NMC) and SMUN to help those most in need in our communities. SMUN and NMC have a long history of ensuring that those living in low income areas and those experiencing homelessness have access to clean, new clothes, hygiene products and other community services. This mobile program allows individuals easier access to clothing, allows individuals to grow and to participate.

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Warming Centre to open in St. Catharines for the vulnerable

Warming Centre to open in St. Catharines for the vulnerable

Posted Jan 24th, 2022 in News & Updates

Jan. 24, 2022 – With temperatures dropping, Start Me Up Niagara (SMUN), Silver Spire United Church and Niagara Region have worked jointly to open a warming centre to give those who are vulnerable and may be experiencing homelessness a safe, warm indoor place to rest and access amenities in St. Catharines. Silver Spire United Church located at 366 St. Paul Street in St. Catharines will be opening its doors for the warming centre on Monday, Jan. 24, 2022.

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Warming Centre to open in Niagara Falls for vulnerable

Warming Centre to open in Niagara Falls for vulnerable

Posted Jan 18th, 2022

With temperatures dropping, Start Me Up Niagara (SMUN) the City of Niagara Falls and Niagara Region have worked jointly to open warming centres to give those who are vulnerable and may be experiencing homelessness a safe, warm indoor place to rest and access amenities.

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Our Locations

The Centre and Work Action Centre are both conveniently located in the heart of downtown St. Catharines. 

The Centre, Start Me Up Niagara

The Centre

17 Gale Crescent
St. Catharines, ON L2R 3K8

(905) 984-5310

Contact & Map

Work Action Centre, Start Me Up Niagara

Work Action Centre

203 Church Street
St. Catharines, ON L2R 3E8

(289) 438-3939

Contact & Map

Support Our Work

Your donations go directly to frontline service and supports for our participants who experience homelessness and other mental health and addictions issues.

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