ToolBox Niagara just completed its fifth annual campaign, handing out essential goods and warm winter accessories to homeless men in Niagara. But the charity organization’s founder, James Symons, is already planning the group’s next endeavour: a virtual walk to benefit Start Me Up Niagara.
“On February 26, it is 'The Coldest Night of the Year' across Canada,” says Symons, in an interview with ThoroldToday. “We’ll be walking for Start Me Up Niagara. They provide a warming centre in Niagara Falls and St. Catharines, and they provide programs and a job access centre. Start Me Up Niagara has done some great work. It’s a great opportunity so they have funding throughout the year. ”
The Coldest Night of the Year is a charity event, entering its 11th year, in which people walk to raise funds for organizations that fight homelessness. Because of COVID-19, this year’s walk is virtual.
“People can make donations online and look for Team ToolBox, they can pledge,“ says Symons. “People are welcome to join us. We’re going to meet at 7 p.m. at Nick Basciano Centre at 131 Richmond Street. We’ll be going at a slow pace and just walking through the streets. This is our second time participating in the walk. Walking is a great way to exercise, a great way to socialize, and then the money is collected so it helps everyone.”
Symons spends most of his spare time volunteering and helping others. He credits his late grandmother, Agnes, for instilling in him the spirit of giving back.
“My grandma gave a lot to others,” he says. “She did everything for everyone else. She had very little herself because she was always donating.”
His other major inspiration? “The caring, loving way in Thorold," he says. "People come together in Thorold. They’ll do anything for anyone."
”I just believe in helping each other,” he continues. ”I believe that’s what we’re called to do, taking care of one another.”
When it comes to the work of ToolBox Niagara, Symons says: “We’re not going anywhere, we’re going to keep going as long as there is a need.”
Click here if you want to donate to Team ToolBox or find out how to participate in the walk.
