How We Help

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

Resource Centre & Activities

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Employment Services & Support

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Niagara's Mobile Closet

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Bike Me Up Niagara

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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, and employment development.

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

About SMUN   Our Services

  • I was able to provide a client with warm clothes when they were being discharged to an emergency shelter during the cold winter months. This client presented at the ED with very little belongings and the mini closet ensured that they were able to be properly clothed when they left. They expressed immense gratitude for this program.
    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
  • Acts of kindness come in many different ways. When one charity, like Toolbox, extends a helping hand to another charity it not only strengthens the bonds of compassion but increases the impact of goodwill in the community. Together, we build a brighter future one generous gesture at a time! Thank you Toolbox!!
    Lynn McIntyre-Enns
  • Our shelter serves 26 clients dealing with homelessness. A relief during such a stressful time as this can be the camaraderie that sports offers. The guys gather in our shelter lounge during Superbowl Season. The excitement absolutely pours out of our lounge! Toolbox Niagara multiplied this enjoyment many times over with their donation of snacks. Thanks Toolbox Niagara for thinking of us, coordinating, and donating! You really gave our guys a Superbowl to remember.
    Salvation Army
  • 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.

Resource Centre Details

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

 Location

203 Church St., ON L2R 3E8 (Map)

 Weekday Hours

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

 Weekend Hours (door service only)

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. 

Now is the time for us to add some warmth to people's lives

Now is the time for us to add some warmth to people's lives

Posted Nov 7th, 2025 in In The News

The best time to donate winter clothing, whether it’s for Start Me Up or a comparable charity where you live, is right away.

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Partnership puts Toolbox Project campaign on sure footing

Partnership puts Toolbox Project campaign on sure footing

Posted Nov 7th, 2025 in Programs

Though he started by himself to equip people on the streets with winter gear, James Symons says he has always had help along the way.

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Meet our New Executive Director

Meet our New Executive Director

Posted Oct 23rd, 2025 in News & Updates

We are proud to welcome our new Executive Director, Kelly-Ann Salerno.

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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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