Local Community Leisure Guides in Niagara

Frequently Asked Questions and Video Tour

Economic Prosperity

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagara - Nearly New Store

4311 Queen St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 2K9

A volunteer-run thrift shop that sells donated gently used clothing, small household items, books, toys and more at a reasonable cost. All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Niagaras' professional mentoring programs that support local children and youth. Donations are welcome during store hours. Volunteers always needed for donation sorting, merchandising, and customer service.

https://niagara.bigbrothersbigsisters.ca/nearly-new-thrift-store/

Office: 905-374-2679

Tue-Sat 11 am-3 pm

Canada. Canada Pension Plan

Toronto, ON

Monthly retirement pension, beginning as early as 60 years or as late as 70 years

full pension if started at 65 years
reduced pension if started before 65 years
increased pension if started after 65 years

Post-Retirement Benefit -- for workers 60-70 years who continue to contribute to CPP while receiving a CPP pension

Disability benefits -- for contributors under 65 years

allowance for dependent children

Survivor benefits -- monthly pension for surviving spouse or common law partner

children's benefit for dependent children of deceased contributor
death benefit (lump sum payment to estate, or persons responsible for funeral costs)

Amount of benefits payable is in proportion to contributions

pension credits earned by either spouse may be divided equally (credit splitting) on termination of marriage or common law partnership

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Canada Pension Plan decisions, see separate entry

Program of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Retirement Hub - information and resources on pensions and retirement planning

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp.html

Office: 1-800-277-9914

Office: 1-800-277-9915

TTY: 1-800-255-4786

Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours, all Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent

Canada. Canada Revenue Agency - St Catharines Tax Services Office

32 Church St
Main Fl St Catharines, ON
L2R 3B7

Administers tax laws for the Government of Canada and for most provinces and territories, and administers various social and economic benefit and incentive programs delivered through the tax system.

Provides information on income tax deductions, credits and exemptions including:

GST/HST Credit
Canada Child Benefit
Ontario Trillium Benefit

https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency.html

Office: 1-800-959-8281

Businesses & Self Employed Inidviduals: 1-800-959-5525

TIPS automated information: 1-800-267-6999

Benefits enquiries (GST/HST, CCB): 1-800-387-1193

Fax: 905-688-5996

TTY: 1-800-665-0354

Telephone enquiries Mon-Fri 8 am-8 pm, Sat 9 am-5 pm

Canada. Employment Insurance

Toronto, ON

Service Overview

Temporary financial assistance and support in finding new employment
claimants must conduct a reasonable job search to remain eligible
Basic benefit rate is 55% of average insured earnings
maximum weekly benefit $650
duration of benefits based on insured weeks of work and regional unemployment rate

Working While on Claim

claimants keep 50 cents of EI benefits for every dollar earned in wages, up to a maximum of 90% of weekly earnings
claimants may choose instead to earn up to 40% of regular benefits or $75 per week (whichever is higher) with no reduction in EI payment

Family Supplement

for low income families who receive the Canada Child Benefit (see separate entry)
amount based on annual net family income
supplement will be added to EI payment

Special benefits

26 weeks sickness benefits
26 weeks compassionate care benefits
35 weeks for family caregivers to care for critically ill or injured children, and 15 weeks to care for critically ill or injured adults
15 weeks maternity benefits
40 weeks standard parental, 69 weeks extended parental benefits available to natural, legal or adoptive parents -- benefits can be shared by both parents

Claimants may be able to receive combination of special benefits

My Service Canada Account

computer access to claim information

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577

independent appeal process for Employment Insurance decisions, see separate entry

Job Bank www.jobbank.gc.ca

online employment information and job postings
employers can post jobs online
see separate entry

Program of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

http://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html

Office: 1-800-206-7218,

Office: 1-800-808-6352

Automated Telephone Reporting Service Englishing Service: 1-800-531-7555

Automated Telephone Reporting Service French English Reporting Service: 1-800-431-5595

Social Security Tribunal : 1-877-227-8577

TTY: Toll free 1-800-529-3742

Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours

call Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent

Canada. Old Age Security Programs

Toronto, ON

Old Age Security (OAS)

Monthly pension to legal residents of Canada 65 years and older
full pension to those who have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after turning 18
partial pension may be available

Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) -- Monthly supplement for low income OAS recipients living in Canada

Allowance -- Monthly benefit for low income spouses (60-64 years) of GIS recipients; based on combined income of the couple

Allowance for the Survivor -- Monthly benefit for low income widowed spouses 60-64 years

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Old Age Security decisions, see separate entry

Programs of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS), 1-866-668-8297 -- monthly supplement to low income Ontario seniors receiving OAS and GIS

program of the Ontario Ministry of Finance

Retirement Hub - information and resource on pension and retirement planning

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security.html

Office: 1-800-277-9914

Office #2: 1-800-277-9915

TTY: Toll free 1-800-255-4786

Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours, call Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent

Christian Benefit Thrift Shop

254 Grantham Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2M 4Z7

Thrift store selling clothing, kitchenware, household goods, footwear, jewellery, electronics, crafts, toys, books, antiques, folk art, fine art, collectibles, sports equipment, and more.

Furniture, large appliances, and TVs are not accepted.

This organization falls under the Mennonite Central Committee Ontario charitable organization.

https://mccthriftontario.com/stcatharines/

cbts@mcco.ca

Office: 905-682-8944

Mon-Wed, Sat 9 am-5 pm * Thu-Fri 9 am-8 pm

Community Care of West Niagara

4309 Central Ave
Lincoln, ON
L0R 1B6

Programs include:

Food Bank: Available once per month for perishable and non-perishable grocery pickup, and once per week for perishable items such as fresh produce, bread and any items we may have an excess of.

Housing: Provides support in completion of Niagara Regional Housing applications. Assesses the need for and makes referrals to partners and emergency shelters.

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Niagara Emergency Energy Fund (NEEF) for emergency financial assistance for low income households facing disconnection (gas or hydro). Also provides intake for the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) to lower electricity bills for low-income households.

Dental Assistance: Brushed Aside partner agency. Provide access to dental care for adults in need of dental treatment for pain/infection or dentures.

Identification Clinic: In partnership with Community Care St Catharines, assists clients with replacing birth certificates, citizenship cards, records of landing, marriage certificates, health cards, and delayed statements of birth. Clients can also access safe storage of identifications.

Trusteeship: In partnership with Community Care St Catharines, provides money management and direct distribution of funds to eligible clients.

Canadian Tire Jumpstart: Provides financially disadvantaged children, aged 4-18 years, with the opportunity to participate in sports and recreational activities.

Back to School Program: Provides a backpack filled with school supplies to children and youth from low-income families. Works in partnership with the Jumpstart Sneaker Program in providing a new pair of sneakers. Clients can call the main number or email clientservices@communitycarewn.ca to register.

Birthday Program: Registered clients can select gifts for their children's birthdays.

CCWN gratefully accepts donations of fresh perishable and nonperishable food items. Please drop off donations at receiving area (rear of building) Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm.

https://www.communitycarewn.ca

reception@communitycarewn.ca

Office: 905-563-5822

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm * Client Food Room Tue-Thu 9 am-3 pm, Fri 9 am-12 noon

Community Care of West Niagara

3831 Victoria Ave
Vineland , ON
L0R 2C0

https://www.communitycarewn.ca

reception@communitycarewn.ca

Office: 905-563-5822

Tue-Thu 1 pm-4:30 pm

Community Care, St Catharines and Thorold - Food Bank

12 North St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 2S3

Accepts donations of and distributes food to residents facing financial challenges.

https://www.communitycarestca.ca

bettylou@communitycarestca.ca

Office: 905-685-1349

Mon-Fri 10 am-12 noon, 1 pm-3 pm

Community Care, St Catharines and Thorold - Food Bank

19 Albert St W
Thorold, ON
L2V 2G2

Accepts donations of and distributes food to residents facing financial challenges.

https://www.communitycarestca.ca

bettylou@communitycarestca.ca

Office: 905-227-9240

Mon-Fri 10 am-12 noon, 1 pm-3 pm

Community Care, St Catharines and Thorold - Housing Help Centre

129 Church St
St Catharines, ON
L2R 3E2

Provides a free and confidential housing referral and consultation service.

Helps with:

assistance and information to help solve housing problems
people who are homeless or at risk of being homeless to find and maintain permanent accommodation within the local community
landlords to find tenants and helps to resolve conflicts between landlords and tenants
basic information on the Residential Tenancies Act

Also offers:

money management - trusteeship service (including youth 16-24)
regional identification clinic

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Niagara Emergency Energy Fund (NEEF) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for emergency financial assistance for low income households facing disconnection (gas or hydro). Also provides intake for the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) to lower electricity bills for low-income households.

https://www.communitycarestca.ca

hhc@communitycarestca.ca

Office: 905-984-8955

Fax: 905-984-8838

Mon-Fri 9 am-3 pm

Community Outreach Program Erie

32 Dufferin St
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 2T5

A referral agency and resource centre. Offers a community emergency food bank.

outreach@becon.org

Office: 905-871-2526

Fax: 905-871-8430

Mon-Thu 8:30 am-4 pm * Fri 8:30 am-3 pm

Community Support Services of Niagara - Meals on Wheels

5045 Valleyview Rd
Lincoln, ON
L0R 1B2

Choice of nutritious hot or frozen meals delivered to client's home by friendly volunteers. Hot meals are available Mondays to Fridays (choice of days) over the noon hour. Frozen meals are selected from a rotating menu and delivered once per week.

https://happyinmyhome.ca/

Office: 905-563-9501

Fax: 905-563-9502

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Community Support Services of Niagara - Meals on Wheels

Seaway Mall; 800 Niagara St
R30 Welland, ON
L3C 5Z4

https://happyinmyhome.ca/

Office: 905-788-3181

Fax: 905-788-3182

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Credit Canada

36 Page St, Ste 411
St Catharines, ON
L2R 4A7

A non-profit organization offering confidential credit counselling at low or no cost.

Services include:

Assessment of income and expenses
Money management advice
Credit Counselling
Budgeting assistance
Debt management program
Advocacy
Public education, in-house or out in the community

https://www.creditcanada.com

info@creditcanada.com

Office: 416-228-3328

Toll Free: 1-800-267-2272

Fax: 416-228-1164 ; 1-885-805-1164

Mon-Thu 8 am-6 pm, Fri 8 am-5 pm, Sat 8 am-4 pm

Crystal Ridge Dream Center - Community Kitchen

385 Derby Rd
Fort Erie , ON
L0S 1B0

Provide take out meals to marginalized individuals including those that are low income or living in poverty, individuals in group homes or supportive living due to mental illness, and the senior and elderly populations.

https://www.crystalridgedreamcenter.com

info@crystalridgedreamcenter.com

Office: 289-476-0126

Tue, 11 am-1 pm

Fonthill Lions Club

103 Hurricane Rd
Pelham, ON
L0S 1E0

A service club that raises funds for a variety of organizations and sight or hearing related projects. Supports Lake Joe, Camp Huronda, Camp Dorset, Pelham Cares, Welland Hospital Foundation, Pelham Summer Day Camp and other Lions-related projects. Also sponsors local minor sport teams.

May be able to assist in the purchase of glasses or hearing aids for individuals if funds are available. Also collects used glasses for distribution to other countries.

https://www.fonthilllions.ca

fonthilllions@gmail.com

Clubhouse : 905-892-5852

Call for information

For the Needy - Not the Greedy - For the Needy - Not the Greedy

6934 Kinsmen Court N
Niagara Falls, ON
L2H 0Y5

Supply a wide variety of medical equipment and assistive devices to individuals or organizations in need, when resources are available. The organization has been able to donate wheelchairs, walkers, operating tables, syringes, food supplements, infrared wheelchairs, alcohol swabs, CPAP machines etc.

https://www.fortheneedy-notthegreedy.com

fortheneedynotthegreedy@cogeco.net

Office: 289-296-8079

Fax: 289-296-6697

Wed-Fri 9 am-2 pm

Fort Erie Lions Club

Douglas Heights Senior Centre; 265 High St
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 3R4

A service club for men and women that raises funds for a variety of charitable organizations.

May be able to help with the purchase of glasses for individuals on a low income through the group's Health and Welfare Committee. Also may be able to help with assistance for hearing aids, equipment, etc. Provide Dog Guides for the blind, hearing impaired or physically handicapped. Also promote the idea of development of programs to eliminate unnecessary blindness throughout the world.

They sponsor the Squadron 337 Air Cadets in Fort Erie so that the youth do not pay for this program.

Office: 905-871-7761

Third Thu 6:30 pm, Sep-Jun

Fort Erie Meals on Wheels

St Paul's Anglican Church; 32 Idylewylde St
Lower Level Fort Erie, ON
L2A 2L1

A non-profit, volunteer service delivering hot and/or frozen nutritious meals at a reasonable cost. Also provides a social contact and a security check on their well-being. A monthly lunch out program is also available.

Hot meals are prepared by 12 Carrots Catering and frozen meals are prepared at Niagara Ina Grafton Gage Village, St Catharines.

femow@bellnet.ca

Office: 1-877-665-6325

Fax: 905-871-9261

Office Mon-Fri 8 am-3 pm
Hot Meal Delivery Mon-Fri 11 am-1 pm
Frozen Meal Delivery Wed 11 am-1 pm

GBF Community Services

40 Elm St
Grimsby, ON
L3M 4G3

A registered, not for profit community agency that provides social service assistance to members of the Grimsby community who are experiencing financial hardship. Services ensure those in need receive the basic provision of food security (i.e. food bank and holiday hampers), housing assistance (i.e. rent and utility assistance), health and wellbeing support (i.e. medical and dental assistance), a Back-to-School Program, and a retail store that is available for all in the community.

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Niagara Emergency Energy Fund (NEEF) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for emergency financial assistance for low income households facing gas or hydro (Grimsby Power) disconnection.

https://gbfgrimsby.com/

info@gbfgrimsby.com

Office: 905-309-5664

Fax: 905-945-6233

Food bank Tue-Fri 10 am-2 pm
Retail Store Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10 am-4:30 pm * Thu 10 am-8 pm
Donations Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 10 am-4 pm * Thu 10 am-7:30 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

6777 Morrison St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 6M8

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

roumi@goodwillniagara.com

Office: 905-357-9500

Fax: 905-357-9679

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

45-53 West Side Rd
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 5Y7

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

Office: 289-478-1330

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

Glendale Plaza; 228 Glendale Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2T 3Y6

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

Office: 905-688-9937

Fax: 905-688-8419

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

Lincoln Mall Plaza; 495 Welland Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2M 6P3

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

roumi@goodwillniagara.com

Office: 905-684-7741

Fax: 905-641-5769

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

572 Niagara St
Welland, ON
L3C 6T8

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

roumi@goodwillniagara.com

Office: 905-714-7953

Fax: 905-714-7954

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

1 Churchill Ave
Welland, ON
L3B 0A8

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

Office: 289-820-7126

Fax: 289-820-4945

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Goodwill Industries Niagara - Retail Store and Training Centre

6840 McLeod Rd
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 3G6

A retail store and training centre offering a selection of clothing, house wares, household goods, furniture, appliances, books.

Donations may be dropped off during store hours.

https://www.goodwillniagara.com

Office: 905-356-6083

Mon-Fri 9 am-9 pm Sat-Sun 9 am-5 pm

Grantham Lions Club

732 Niagara St
St Catharines, ON
L2M 1V7

A service club made up of community-minded men and women that raise funds for a variety of causes. New members are always welcome to join. Requests for funding must be forwarded in writing.

https://www.granthamlionsclub.com

granthamlion@gmail.com

Clubhouse and Hall Rental: 905-935-8434

Call for information

Habitat for Humanity Niagara - ReStore

185 South Service Rd
Grimsby, ON
L3M 4H6

Home improvement store which sells new and gently used furniture, home accessories, kitchens, appliances, building materials, and more. Proceeds support Habitat's building program while reducing the amount of used material headed for overflowing landfills.

Stores and manufacturers can donate end-of-the-line, scratch and dent and excess inventory, seconds, paint mis-tints and customer returns. Builders, contractors and renovators can send salvageable materials to the ReStore. Items may be dropped off during regular business hours. Pick-ups may be arranged by calling the store. Guest speakers are available to talk about Habitat for Humanity and the ReStore.

https://www.habitatniagara.ca

grcashdesk@habitatniagara.ca

Office: 905-309-7365

Mon-Sat 9 am-5 pm
Donations Mon-Sat 12 noon-4 pm

Habitat for Humanity Niagara - ReStore

2499 Hwy 20
Pelham, ON
L0S 1E6

https://www.habitatniagara.ca

fhcashdesk@habitatniagara.ca

Office: 905-892-2499

Mon-Sat 9 am-5 pm
Donations Mon-Sat 12 noon-4 pm

Habitat for Humanity Niagara - ReStore

150 Bunting Rd
St Catharines, ON
L2P 3G5

https://www.habitatniagara.ca

sccashdesk@habitatniagara.ca

Office: 905-685-7365

Mon-Sat 9 am-5 pm
Donations Mon-Sat 12 noon-4 pm

Holy Trinity Anglican Church Welland

77 Division St
Welland, ON
L3B 3Z8

Offers ministry and Anglican worship in a traditional setting.

Hygiene & Food Pantry available once per month for those in need. Upon registration, clients will be given a individual shopping list. Items will be shopped for them on a monthly basis. Changes to shopping list can be made monthly. Items be bagged and handed out once a month.

Some of the items available at the pantry include, but are not limited to, the following:

perishable and non-perishable food
shampoo
laundry detergent and cleaning products
toilet paper
deodorant and other personal care items
diapers
feminine hygiene products
bladder control products

Donations are always welcome and can be dropped off at the church office.

Now offering a daily takeout breakfast to those in need. Also offer a Christmas Day Community Dinner to anyone in need. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, please contact the church for information about each program.

http://www.holytrinitywelland.ca

holytrinitywelland@cogeco.net

Office: 905-734-3543

Fax: 905-734-9344

Office Wed, Fri 8:30 am-1:30 pm
Worship Services Sun 8 am, 10 am, Wed 12 noon (30 min)
Hygiene & Food Pantry Third Thu 3:30 pm-6 pm
Breakfast Program Mon-Sun 7:30 am-8:30 am

Hope Centre (The) - Community Lunch Program

570 King St
Welland, ON
L3B 3L2

COVID-19 - Lunches will continue to be packaged in take-out form and will be distributed through the entrance/exit at the south of the agency.

Serves lunch 5 days a week to individuals and families in need.

https://www.thehopecentre.net

info@thehopecentre.net

Office: 905-788-0744

Fax: 905-788-0748

Mon-Fri 11 am-1 pm

Hope Centre (The) - Financial and Community Programs

570 King St
Welland, ON
L3B 3L2

Programs include:

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Niagara Emergency Energy Fund (NEEF) and the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) for emergency financial assistance for low income households facing disconnection (gas or hydro). Also provides intake for the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) to lower electricity bills for low-income households.

Clothing: St Vincent de Paul clothing vouchers

Koats for Kids: provides donated winter apparel to children and adults. Call the centre for details - 905-788-0744 ext 221

Trusteeship: assists clients in effective budgeting * ensuring rent and bills are paid directly to the landlord and service providers to prevent evictions/disconnections

Dental: Brushed Aside partner agency - Limited assistance available for the treatment of pain/infection or dentures provided through a partnership with the United Way and other local agencies.

Our Sight Program: assists clients with obtaining prescription eyeglasses

Homelessness Prevention Coordinator: provide housing information, assistance with goal setting, advocacy and emotional support

Kacey Lynn Fund: financial assistance to eligible families with children encountering health and dental expenses beyond their income and/or health benefits

https://www.thehopecentre.net

info@thehopecentre.net

Office: 905-788-0744

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm * Wed 11 am-7 pm

Hope Centre (The) - Food Bank

570 King St
Welland, ON
L3B 3L2

Provides supplementary groceries, including fresh fruits, vegetables and dairy products, (when available) to registered members once per month. Supply will depend on the donated products that are received.

https://www.thehopecentre.net

info@thehopecentre.net

Office: 905-788-0744

Fax: 905-788-0748

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 9:30 am-11:30 pm, 12:30 pm-3 pm * Wed 11:30 am-6:15 pm

Living Water Community Church

42 Ormond St S
Thorold, ON
L2V 1Y4

COVID-19: Community meals suspended until further notice.

A local congregation offering services in the Baptist faith.

Offers children and youth programs throughout the year.

Also offers a free community supper and lunch.

https://livingwatercommunitychurch.ca/

Office: 905-227-1922

Services Sun 10:30 am
Community Supper Third Fri 5 pm-7 pm (suspended)
Community Lunch hours not specified

Main Street Baptist Church

6151 Main St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 6A3

A local church offering services in the Baptist faith. Offers the Daily Bread Luncheon.

Office: 905-354-9057

Sunday School Sun 9:45 am
Church Service Sun 11 am-12 noon, 6 pm-7 pm
Daily Bread Luncheon Tue 12 noon
Prayer Meeting Wed 6:45 pm-8 pm
Men's Breakfast every second Sat 8:15 am, Sep-May

March of Dimes Canada - March of Dimes Canada, Thorold Regional Office

3340 Schmon Pkwy
Unit 1E Thorold, ON
L2V 4Y6

Offers a number of programs for seniors and adults with disabilities.

https://www.marchofdimes.ca

wdilts@marchofdimes.ca

Office: 905-687-8484

Toll Free: 1-800-263-4742

Fax: 905-685-6651

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Meals on Wheels Niagara Falls Ontario Inc

Allied Health Building; 5673 North St, Ste 101
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 1J4

COVID-19: The lunch club and congregate dining programs are currently suspended.

Meals delivered at home to eligible seniors or adults with nutritional challenges

Services available:

social contact
safety check
frozen meals
congregate lunching
congregate dining offered in the common rooms of several seniors' apartment buildings

https://mealsonwheelsniagara.ca

mealsonwheels.nf@outlook.com

Office: 905-356-7548

Office: 905-356-9194

Fax: 905-356-4032

Office Mon-Fri 8 am-3 pm
Hot Meal Delivery Mon-Fri 11 am-1 pm
Frozen Meal Delivery Tue 12 noon-2 pm

Meals on Wheels Port Colborne Inc

953 Elm St
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 4R8

Hot Meals delivered at home to eligible people. Meals are now being prepared by "Gourmet At Home" a local company that prepares the meals fresh each day.

Services available:

Social contact
Safety check
Hot & frozen meals
Therapeutic diets
Monthly lunch-out program

http://www.mealsonwheelspc.ca

portmow@outlook.com

Office: 905-835-1581

Toll Free: 1-877-665-6325 ext 2

Fax: 905-835-8708

Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm

Meals on Wheels Thorold-St Catharines

227 Bunting Rd
Unit L St Catharines, ON
L2M 3Y2

COVID-19: The congregate/lunch out dining program has been cancelled until further notice. Hot and frozen meals are still being delivered. All volunteers are being screened before picking up the food. Volunteers are calling clients upon arrival and letting them know meals will be put in a bag and left on their doorstep, table or cooler near their door.

Meals delivered at home to eligible people.

HOT MEALS: Delivered 5 days/week by volunteers

FROZEN MEALS: Delivered once/week based on menu order

FROZEN QUIK PAKS: Entrees with soups or desserts which may be delivered to hospital discharged persons requiring meals for the weekend or newly admitted eligible persons requiring frozen meals outside of the regular frozen delivery schedule.

LUNCHOUT PROGRAM: Twice monthly luncheon program promoting social interaction, recreation and/or educational activities for Seniors 55+ in accessible dining sites in St Catharines. Transportation is available for those who qualify.

volunteers@measlonwheels-tsc.ca

Office: 905-682-0333

Fax: 905-682-0343

Office Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm
Hot Meal Delivery Mon-Fri 11 am-1 pm
Frozen Meal Delivery Wed 11 am-1 pm

Mission Thrift Store

4385 Hillview Dr
Lincoln, ON
L0R 1B8

A thrift shop staffed by volunteers that sells used clothing, household goods, and furniture at reasonable costs.

https://missionthriftstore.com

beamsville@missionthriftstore.com

Office: 905-563-6905

Mon-Fri 11 am-4:30 pm * Sat 11 am-3:30 pm

Mission Thrift Store

184 Scott St
St Catharines, ON
L2N 1H1

A thrift shop staffed by volunteers that sells used clothing, household goods, and furniture at reasonable costs.
Will pick up donations of furniture only. Furniture must be in very good condition or it will not be accepted. This determination will be made by the person doing the pick up. Will deliver items for a small fee.

https://missionthriftstore.com

st_catharines_board@missionthriftstore.com

Office: 905-704-0422

Mon-Wed, Fri-Sat 12 noon-5 pm * Thu 12 noon-8 pm

New to You Thrift Shop

59 Southworth St N
Welland, ON
L3B 1Y3

Sells used clothing, jewellery, small household appliances, books, toys, movies, music, costumes (year round), knick knacks, furniture, china and linens at reasonable cost.

Office: 905-735-4010

Mon-Sat 9:30 am-5 pm

Newark Neighbours

1534 Niagara Stone Road
Niagara-On-The-Lake, ON
L0S 1T0

A volunteer run organization and the only food bank and thrift store serving Niagara-on-the-Lake. The thrift store sells gently used clothing and footwear for women, men and children as well as jewelry, accessories, household items, small appliances, bedding and towels, collectibles and more at a low cost. All thrift store revenue is used to support the food bank.

Non-perishable food supplies are provided twice a month to registered clients; holiday hampers are distributed at Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.

https://www.newarkneighbours.ca

grantcis347@gmail.com

Office: 905-468-3519

Food bank Tue, Thu 9:30 am-1 pm
Thrift store Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri Sat 10 am-4 pm * Thu 10 am-7 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

469 Central Ave
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 3T8

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities, in partnership with community agencies, to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

Emergency Assistance: Community Services also provides assistance to members of the community who are not recipients of Ontario Works benefits provided they meet certain eligibility criteria. These benefits include Emergency and discretionary benefits (i.e. basic needs and shelter) and may be accessed by the working poor, Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients and homeless individuals.

Temporary Care Assistance for Children: Financial assistance may be available for individuals looking after a child where the individual needing assistance is not the child's birth or adoptive parent.

Staff provide life stabilization supports and services that support individuals (OW and ODSP non-disabled adults) in reaching a level of stability that allows them to be involved in their community and participate in employment services.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-354-3561

Application/General Inquiry : 905-641-9230

Application/General Inquiry Toll Free : 1-866-627-1110

Cheque Inquiry (IVR): 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-994-7262

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

5853 Peer St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 1X4

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-354-3561

Application/General Inquiry : 905-641-9230

Application/General Inquiry Toll Free : 1-866-627-1110

Cheque Inquiry (IVR): 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-353-1613

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

92 Charlotte St
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 3E1

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-734-7975

Application/General Inquiry : 905-641-9230

Application/General Inquiry Toll Free : 1-866-627-1110

Cheque Inquiry (IVR): 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-834-4445

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

234 Bunting Rd
St Catharines, ON
L2R 6Z4

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-641-9960

Application/General Inquiry : 905-641-9230

Application/General Inquiry Toll Free : 1-866-627-1110

Cheque Inquiry (IVR): 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-984-8760

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

250 Thorold Rd
Welland, ON
L3C 3W2

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-734-7975

Application/General Inquiry : 905-641-9230

Application/General Inquiry Toll Free : 1-866-627-1110

Cheque Inquiry (IVR): 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-735-7307

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara (Region of). Public Health - Dental Health in Niagara

1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way
Thorold, ON
L2V 4T7

The Dental Program provides dental services, programs and oral health support and education for:

Children and youth (17 years and younger)
Seniors (65 years and older)

Clinics and Services

Dental Health Clinics provides dental services for children up to their 18 birthday, Healthy Smiles Ontario program, Ontario Seniors Dental Care program (for eligible seniors), and oral health support and education.

Mobile Dental Clinic travels through Niagara visiting schools and community locations providing free dental services.

Dental Screening visual assessment by a registered dental hygienist.

Flouride Recommendations offers information for using fluoride products to prevent tooth decay.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/health

dental@niagararegion.ca

Dental Health Information Line: 905-688-8248 ext 7399

Toll Free: 1-888-505-6074

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara Amputee Association

130 Lockhart Dr
St Catharines, ON
L2T 1W4

COVID-19: Phone and virtual services remain open.

A support group for those who have gone through the trauma of pre-amputation or amputation. Also offers service for the family and friends of amputees. The group offers a visitation program if requested by the family, hospital, or surgeon. Will try to provide financial assistance towards the cost of prosthetic based on eligibility and availability of funds. Also offers social events. Helps towards gym membership at Brock Wellness Center for amputees who are interested.

www.niagaraamputee.org

niagaraamputeeassociation@gmail.com

Office: 905-688-5550 ext 1-5572

By appointment

Niagara Falls Christian Ministries

St John the Evangelist Church; 3428 Portage Rd
Main Sanctuary Niagara Falls, ON
L2J 2K4

Weekly ministries include bible teachings, worship, and music, as well as weekly Bible study groups.

Christian refugee services- A church member sponsored Christian refugee family program.

Teaching Ministry - Free teaching courses in understanding world religions.

Grace Pantry- An emergency community food bank program.

https://www.nfcm.weebly.com

roze4jesus@gmail.com

Office: 289-296-1212

After Hours: 647-464-3774

Services Sun 12 noon, Thu 6:30 pm

Niagara Falls Community Health Centre - Dental Clinic

4790 Victoria Ave
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 4C2

Green Door Project
In partnership with the Green Door Project, the Niagara Falls Community Health Centre is providing no-cost, emergency dental care for individuals 18-64 years of age, without coverage for dental care through either private health insurance or any form of social assistance,

Ontario Seniors Dental Care Program (OSDCP)
A government funded dental care program offering free, routine dental services for eligible low-income seniors who are 65 years or older.

https://www.nfchc.ca/seniors-dental-health-promotion

Office: 905-356-2288

By appointment only

Niagara Falls Community Outreach - The Soup Kitchen

4865 St Lawrence Ave
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 3Y1

A volunteer based, registered charitable organization providing nutritious bagged lunches to anyone in need.

https://www.nfsoupkitchen.ca/

Office: 905-354-1640

Mon-Sun 11:30 am-1 pm

Niagara Falls Lions Club

5981 Drummond Rd
Niagara Falls, ON
L2E 6E2

Part of an international service organization with 1.4 million members that raises funds for a variety of needs with a focus in the area of blindness and vision concerns, diabetes as well as youth issues.

May be able to help with the purchase of eye glasses in an emergency, for those on a very low income. Must be contacted by writing a letter to the club. Also accepts donations of used glasses to send to Third World countries.

https://niagarafallslions.ca

info@niagarafallslions.ca

Office: 905-374-2653

Call for information
Meetings: 1st and 3rd Tue of each month at 6:30 pm at the Club Hall (except Jul-Aug) - Temporarily meeting 2nd Tue of the month

Niagara Ina Grafton Gage Village - Satellite Meal Service

413 Linwell Rd
St Catharines, ON
L2M 7Y2

Home-cooked meals, packaged and quick frozen ready for microwave or oven. Each meal includes an entree, potato or rice and assorted vegetables. Additional options include: soup and dessert. Offers a rotating menu of 35 different meals.

Meals are available by delivery in St Catharines by the Meals on Wheels office or for pick up at Niagara Ina Grafton Gage Village.

https://www.niggv.on.ca

Office: 905-935-6080 ext 228

Fax: 905-935-6847

Mon-Fri 9 am-4 pm

Niagara Region Housing Services

Campbell East, 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way
Thorold, ON
L2V 4T7

Administrator of affordable housing for Niagara Region and provides affordable housing solutions for approximately 15,000 people through a combination of programs and services, including:

Coordination of the Centralized Waiting List for affordable housing in Niagara
Managing more than 2,800 Public Housing units located in apartment buildings, townhouses and detached houses
Maintenance services and capital works projects
Answering inquiries regarding Tenancy Agreements and building repairs
Providing administration for 59 non-profit and co-operative housing providers
Researching and initiating new affordable housing opportunities
Providing more than 1,600 rent supplement/housing allowance units
Providing down payment assistance to qualified applicants through a homeownership program (depending on funding availability)
Providing funding to low-income homeowners for major asset replacement/repair, accessibility modifications and creation of secondary suites (depending on funding availability)

https://www.nrh.ca

Office: 905-682-9201

Toll Free: 1-800-232-3292

Fax: 905-687-4844

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Niagara Warehouse of Hope

46 Broadway Ave
St Catharines, ON
L2M 1M4

A non-profit organization created as a way to bridge the gap between Niagara and citizens in need in developing countries. Collects items such as hospital beds, walkers, canes, crutches, special seats, medical equipment, clothes, eyeglasses, and school supplies to be sent to people in need, locally and around the world. An assembly point for goods to be put in shipping containers to be sent overseas.

Also able to recycle used electronics including stereos, TVs, computers and accessories, working or not. Broken computer monitors are not accepted.

https://www.warehouseofhope.com/

niagarawarehouseofhope@gmail.com

Office: 905-646-7237

Tue, Thu 8:30 am-12 noon

Niagara Worship Centre

6846 Frederica St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 1E2

A church offering worship services for the whole family, with children and youth programs on Sun and throughout the week.

https://www.niagaraworship.ca

office@niagaraworship.ca

Office: 905-356-0635

Office Mon-Thu 9 am-3 pm
Services Sun 9 am, 11 am

Ontario. Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services - Ontario Disability Support Program

Garden City Tower; 301 St Paul St
Mezzanine Fl St Catharines, ON
L2R 7R4

Helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.

The program provides eligible people with disabilities with:

Income Support - helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.

Employment Supports - helps people with disabilities who can and want to work prepare for and find a job.

If a person is receiving ODSP Income support, the individual and their family may be eligible to receive health benefits including prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, medical supplies, transportation to medical appointments.

Extended Health Benefit If someone does not qualify for ODSP income support due to excess income from other sources, they may qualify for the Extended Health Benefit. It may help with the cost of prescription drugs, basic dental care, vision care, medical supplies, transportation to medical appointments, assistive devices including hearing aids.

https://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/social/odsp

odspstcath@ontario.ca

Office: 905-688-3022

Toll Free: 1-800-263-5413 ; IVR 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-688-2904

TTY: 905-688-1140

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario. Ministry of Health - Assistive Devices Program

5700 Yonge St, 7th Flr
Toronto, ON
M2M 4K5

Financial assistance to Ontario residents with long term physical disabilities for assistive devices essential for independent living

Pays a percentage or fixed amount of the cost of equipment * 8,000 pieces of equipment or supplies are covered by the program * includes prostheses, wheelchairs/mobility aids and specialized seating systems, enteral-feeding pumps and supplies, ostomy supplies, monitors and test strips for insulin-dependent diabetics, insulin pumps and supplies for children, hearing aids, respiratory equipment, orthoses (braces, garments and pumps), visual and communication aids, oxygen and oxygen delivery equipment * does not cover repair costs

Oral and Maxillofacial Rehabilitation Program (OMRP) - Funding for patients for implants * implants support jaw and facial prosthetic devices which restore jaw function (chewing, swallowing, etc) * patients usually have had jaw reconstruction surgery

For an in-depth list of ineligible items, visit https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program#section-5

https://www.ontario.ca/page/assistive-devices-program

adp@ontario.ca

Office: 416-327-8804

Toll Free: 1-800-268-6021

Fax: 416-327-8192

TTY: 416-327-4282 or 1-800-387-5559

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Ontario. Ministry of Health - Dental Care For Low-Income Seniors

Toronto, ON

Dental care program funded by the Provincial government * provides free, routine dental services for low income adults who are 65 years of age or older * coverage period ends yearly on July 31, no matter when enrolled in the program

Coverage includes :

check-ups * including scaling, fluoride and polishing
repairing broken teeth and cavities
x-rays
removing teeth or abnormal tissue (oral surgery)
anesthesia
treating infection or pain (endodontic services)
treating gum conditions and diseases (periodontal services)

https://www.ontario.ca/page/dental-care-low-income-seniors

Office: 416-916-0204

Toll Free: 1-833-207-4435

Fax: 416-327-8497

TTY: 1-800-855-0511

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Open Arms Mission Welland - Community Lunch

22 Fifth St
Welland, ON
L3B 4Z3

COVID-19: Lunch suspended during COVID

Offers a hot meal to members of the community on Saturdays.

https://www.openarmsmissionwelland.com

openarmsmission@cogeco.net

Office: 905-788-3800

Fax: 905-788-3806

COVID-19Suspended during COVID

Open Arms Mission Welland

22 Fifth St
Welland, ON
L3B 4Z3

COVID19 - The Food Bank and Hygiene Program is still available. The Drop in Centre is closed.

Offers the following:

food bank
hygiene program
spiritual support
Redeemed Lives Men's Ministry (933 Forks Rd W)
sewing classes
free professional haircuts

Donations of food and hygiene products can be delivered to the OAM Ministry Campus warehouse at 933 Forks Rd Tue-Fri 10 am-4 pm. Fresh produce, meat, and bread delivered to the Mission Centre at 22 Fifth St, Welland Tue-Fri 9:30 am-4 pm.

https://www.openarmsmissionwelland.com

stacy.o@openarmsmissionwelland.com

Office: 905-788-3800

Food Bank and Hygiene Program Tue-Thu 9 am-4 pm, Fri 9 am-12 noon * Drop in Centre Closed

Open Arms of Jesus Outreach Ministry

60 Facer St
Side Door St Catharines, ON
L2M 5J1

A drop in centre providing the following services:

Phone(free long distance to Canada and USA) and Internet
Food bank (local community)
Individual and family Christian counselling/ addictions counselling
Funeral services for low income individuals
Visits for shut-ins and inmates
Advocacy for workers compensation, housing and programs including Ontario Works and Ontario Disability
Income tax preparation for low income individuals and families

openarmsofjesus@hotmail.com

Office: 289-271-1281

Mon-Fri 9 am-2 pm