Start Me Up Niagara, a St. Catharines-based organization, set up in the parking lot of Cornerstone Church in Virgil, using a large white truck to transport clothing, shoes and hygiene products.

Items were displayed on racks and in bins to create what the organization described as a “welcoming and dignified” shopping experience. People in need could take what they required.

Natasha Nasato, the mobile closet’s program co-ordinator, said clients’ appearances often reflect their circumstances, and the program aims to provide dignity.

“We might have a client show up in the middle of winter with crocs on and no socks. Or no shoes at all,” she said. “And when they come to our event, or to a mini closet, we’re able to provide them with clothing or shoes.

“When they’re leaving, they have that basic need met so they can go on with their day.”

Mini closets are locations that offer 24/7 access to clothing supplied by Niagara’s Mobile Closet.

At Thursday’s event, visitors could also get advice from representatives of the Income Matters Income Tax program, the Work Action Centre and Quest, which provides health-related support.

Nasato said the organization acquired the truck two months ago and has held about six events using it.

In established locations, she said, more than 100 people may line up for items. More than 10 people attended Thursday’s event, which she described as a success in a smaller community.

“We didn’t have any expectations for turnouts,” she said. “But seeing how many people showed up today, we’re really happy with the turnout. Even having one person come and leave (with) more than what they came with is a success to us.”

Niagara’s Mobile Closet launched in 2020 in response to the pandemic and has since expanded across the region.

Nasato said the program held 42 events in 2025, serving more than 3,000 people. The number of mini closets grew to 30 last year from 22 in 2024.

Mike Eybel, communications and public relations co-ordinator at Start Me Up Niagara, said the closets can meet urgent needs.

“You can imagine if you have to go the hospital and all of a sudden, you’ve found that the nurses and doctors to give you adequate health care have to cut of your blouse,” he said.

“There’s a community closet, there’s a mini closet at the hospital, so that you’re not being discharged in a hospital gown. You’re being discharged in clothing.”

Nasato said it took six years for the program to reach Niagara-on-the-Lake, reflecting its gradual expansion from larger population centres based on need. She said she hopes the visit raises awareness of poverty in the community.

“We started in St. Catharines and we’re just slowly growing,” she said.

Start Me Up Niagara was founded in 2000.

Donations can be dropped off at 203 Church St. in St. Catharines on Tuesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to noon and Sundays from noon to 2 p.m.

Priority items include hoodies and sweaters, track pants, running shoes or sneakers, and personal hygiene products.

daniel@niagaranow.com