Toolbox Project founder James Symon says there are 40 barrels across Niagara, including JC Patissier in Thorold, where people can donate socks, hats, underwear and other items for men in need. - Sarah Ferguson/Metroland
Toolbox Project Niagara builds care packages for men facing poverty
During the first year of the Toolbox Project campaign, James Symons set himself a goal to collect 25 boxes filled with a variety of necessities, including deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, socks and toques.
Toolbox Project founder James Symon says there are 40 barrels across Niagara, including JC Patissier in Thorold, where people can donate socks, hats, underwear and other items for men in need. - Sarah Ferguson/Metroland
During the first year of the Toolbox Project campaign, James Symons set himself a goal to collect 25 boxes filled with a variety of necessities, including deodorant, toothbrushes and toothpaste, socks and toques.
More than 350 boxes ended up being delivered to men across Niagara who are living with poverty.
The boxes were distributed by organizations including Start Me Up Niagara, Salvation Army’s Mobile Outreach, Southridge Shelter, Community Care, Out of the Cold and the Hope Centre.
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That was back in 2017.
This year, Symons said he expects that number to be around the 1,500 mark or even higher. These care packages will be delivered to organizations in all 12 Niagara municipalities on Dec. 7, where they will then be distributed to recipients just in time for the Christmas season. Organizations that will distribute the boxes include Pelham Cares, Port Cares, Open Arms Mission, the Hope Centre, the Fort Erie Native Friendship Centre, Canadian Mental Health Association and Niagara Regional Native Centre.
"We're seeing increasing numbers (of people who could benefit from Toolbox Project Niagara)," Symons said, adding that factors like the cost of living and inflation are making it more difficult for people to make ends meet.
Symons is grateful to people and businesses across Niagara that have supported the efforts of the Toolbox Project.
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"The community has been amazing. The City of Thorold, the mayor and the local fire department (have) been really supportive," Symons said.
About 40 donation bins have been set up across the region to donate items, including JC Patissier and the fire station in Thorold and all CAA Niagara locations.
Needed items include deodorant, bars of soap, snacks, candies, toothpaste and toothbrushes, socks, toques, gloves, scarves, puzzles, pens and notepads.
Cash donations are also accepted (tax receipts are available through Start Me Up Niagara).
Symons said volunteers are needed on Nov. 30 to help with assembling the care packages.
To get more information about the Toolbox Project, volunteer or find out where to donate, visit www.toolboxproject.ca.
