*NEW LOCATION*

203 Church St.,

St. Catharines, ON L2R 3E8 

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

  • The Resource Centre staff member conected me to a worker who helped me attend a viewing in a supportive living building where I now have three meals a day, proved access to a shower and bathroom and my own room. During this process I was able to put my well-being and mental health first and I am now connected with a brain injury support and will be taking part in recreational activities. I will always be grateful to have supports from SMUN.
    Kathy M.
  • The compassion and dedication from this team and program is OUTSTANDING! It has made a difference in so many lives already and continues to grow!
    Anonymous
  • We have a lot of homeless patients who have minimal clothes to wear. Part of a safe discharge is to ensure they are properly clothed (shirt, pants, shoes) and if the mini closets did not exist the patient would not have been able to be discharged.
    Anonymous
  • Start Me Up is hope for the future. They provide help getting a place to live, help finding work, help getting food and clothes. Without Start Me Up, I would have no chance in life. Everyday I need and use the services here. Thank you!
    Dave Stewart
  • I lost my husband and since then, day-to-day life has been a struggle. I was 10 years behind with my taxes and getting them done was not going to happen due to the price. I am on CPP with limited income. I found Start Me Up Niagara from a friend who connected me with the tax program. I met Sarah and brought my documents in and got my tax back 1 week later. I am now getting benefits I was missing out on. I am grateful for Start Me Up Niagara and their tax program. Everything was so easy, I will recommend this program to anyone who needs help. Thank you!
    Cindy Shaw

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

203 Church St., ON L2R 3E8 (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 connected with the latest news and updates from Start Me Up Niagara. 

Walking Together: A Journey of Hope in the Coldest Night of the Year

Walking Together: A Journey of Hope in the Coldest Night of the Year

Posted Jan 22nd, 2024

Welcome back, dear readers! It's that time of year again when we lace up our boots, bundle up, and step into the chilly embrace of winter for a cause that warms the heart—the Coldest Night of the Year St. Catharines. If you've been with us in the past, you know the feeling of community, camaraderie, and the immense impact we make together. For those new to the journey, get ready for an adventure that goes beyond the frosty air.

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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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Our Locations

The Resource Drop-In Centre and Work Action Centre are conveniently located in the heart of downtown St. Catharines. 
 
*NEW* Location: 203 Church Street, St. Catharines, ON L2R 3E8 

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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