About Us
Providing Community Support since 1919
Community Care, St. Catharines & Thorold has been meeting the needs of the less advantaged in our community since 1919. The fundamental principles on which the agency was founded have not changed.
Programs range from food and shelter security to emergency services and support that lead to the independence clients strive to achieve.
Although most programs are delivered within the communities of St. Catharines & Thorold, the Trustee and Niagara Nutrition Partners Programs are delivered on a regional basis.
Mission
We compassionately provide vital services and assistance to individuals and families that meet their basic needs and help bridge their journey to self-sufficiency.
Values
Accessibility • Commitment of Volunteers • Compassion • Diversity • Empowerment • Fairness • Flexibility • Fiscal Responsibility • Honesty • Respect • Responsiveness • Openness
History
Our Mission
“I used to cook soup on my stove all day and every day. There was no time when there wasn’t a pan of soup cooking, because I had 400 families to look after.”
– Leone Taylor, Founder of Associated Charities
Timeline
1919: And so it began…
The organization that is today known as Community Care, St. Catharines & Thorold. The founding members included Judge John Campbell, Mrs. Campbell, Magistrate James Campbell and Mrs. Charles Taylor. Leone Taylor passed away after a very benevolent life in the early 1970s at the age of 93, leaving an incredible legacy and the testimony of the power of one.
1953 to date
The United Way was organized and Associated Charities was one of the first agencies to be assisted.
8 Centre St. was rented
for $20 a month until the agency moved to a shed on Helliwell’s Lane.
The May Court Club
started to distribute Christmas toys, in partnership with the agency, to parents of children in need.
Grantham Township Annex
Moved to a store room in the Grantham TownshAdd Newip Annex on King St.
First staff member hired
Moved to 2 Queenston St. where Mrs. Alice Bryne was the first staff member hired for 75 cents/hour.
Moved to 31 Queenston St.
Became a registered charity
The agency received its Province of Ontario Charter as a Registered Charity.
First official board meeting
Moved to 44 St. Paul Crescent
Board Members
| Betty-Lou Souter | CEO |
| Vicky Rudachuk | President |
| Jeff Moriarty | 1st Vice |
| John Osczypko | 2nd Vice |
| Scott Plugers | Treasurer |
| Poppy Gilliam | Secretary |
|
Holly Mundula Steve Silverman Mario Lagrotteria Dave Upper Meaghan Rusnell Kevin Strooband Kithio Mwanzia |
Directors |
|
Marion Seymour Lichty Ruth Todd Shelley Dix Lori Sather Judy Reid |
Active Advisory Board |