CAA Niagara Announces 2026 Community Boost Recipients: Humane Society of Greater Niagara and Niagara Children’s Centre

THOROLD, ON (June 26, 2026) — CAA Niagara is excited to announce the 2026 Community Boost Partners: Humane Society of Greater Niagara and Niagara’s Children’s Centre.

Going on its eighth year, Community Boost has partnered with two more Niagara-based charitable organizations to receive a one-time $10,000 donation, ongoing marketing and volunteer support, the organization’s logo on a CAA Niagara fleet vehicle and a partnership that will continue for years to come. This annual initiative champions community partnership, by providing support and a lasting partnership between organizations in Niagara that provide services that help Niagara and its residents thrive.

“Community Boost is only possible because of the support of our Members, and for that, we're incredibly grateful. Their trust allows us to invest back into Niagara and support organizations that provide important services and support throughout our community,” said Marrianne Wilson, President and CEO, CAA Niagara. “We're excited to welcome the Niagara Children’s Centre and Humane Society of Greater Niagara to our fleet. As our vehicles travel across Niagara every day, they'll help introduce more people to these organizations, the work they do, and the impact they have on individuals and families throughout our region.”

"When people think about animal welfare, they often think about the animals. We think about the people too. Every day, we meet families doing everything they can to care for a beloved pet, often during some of life's most difficult moments. That is why we are so grateful for this partnership with CAA Niagara,” said Cindy Dunne, Executive Director, Humane Society of Greater Niagara. “Through the Community Boost program, CAA is investing in stronger, more compassionate communities and recognizing the important role local organizations play in supporting both people and animals. We are honoured to be part of that vision."

Strong communities are built when people look out for one another, and that's exactly what CAA Niagara is doing through the Community Boost program,” said Heinz Probst, Chair, Board of Directions, Humane Society of Greater Niagara. “We are honoured to be selected and grateful for their support. Partnerships like this make a real difference, helping us continue our work for animals while supporting the people and families who care about them."

“We are incredibly grateful to be selected as a recipient of the CAA Community Boost program. This support goes far beyond a financial contribution. It’s an investment in children, youth and families across Niagara and a partnership that helps amplify the work we do every day. The opportunity to collaborate with CAA Niagara, benefit from their expertise and volunteer support, and increase awareness through their community presence will help us continue creating more opportunities for children and families to thrive. We’re proud to partner with an organization that shares our commitment to building a stronger, more inclusive Niagara,” said Noella Klawitter, CEO, Niagara Children’s Centre.

Previous recipients: FACS Foundation Niagara, Toolbox Project, Big Brothers Big Sisters Niagara, Wellspring Niagara, Heartland Forest, Pathstone Mental Health Foundation, Gillian's Place, Hospice Niagara, Food4Kids Niagara, FORT Youth Centre, Distress Centre Niagara, the Kristen French Child Advocacy Centre, Autism Ontario – South Region and Habitat for Humanity Niagara.

CAA Niagara would like to thank all the organizations that applied in 2026 and encourage eligible charities to apply again next year.

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RSVP/Media Contact:

Hope Monaco
Communications Coordinator
CAA Niagara
[email protected]

 

Download a print-friendly version of this news release. (PDF)

 

PHOTO ASSETS
Photos courtesy of CAA Niagara

IMAGE 1: "Photo of HSGN & NCC with Branded Trucks" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 3.99Mgs)

IMAGE 2: "Photo of HSGN Accepting Cheque from CAA Niagara" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 4.17Mgs)

IMAGE 3: "Photo of HSGN outdoors with Cheque and Branded Truck" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 4.21Mgs)

IMAGE 4: "Photo of Marrianne Wilson outdoors with HSGN Cheque and Branded Truck" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 3.92Mgs)

IMAGE 5: "Photo of NCC Accepting Cheque from CAA Niagara" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 2.88Mgs)

IMAGE 6: "Photo of NCC outdoors with Cheque and Branded Truck" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 4.11Mgs)

IMAGE 7: "Photo of Marrianne Wilson outdoors with NCC Cheque and Branded Truck" - Download Hi-Res version (JPG - 4.10Mgs)

 

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About CAA Niagara

Founded in 1911 as the St. Catharines Automobile Club, CAA Niagara is a not-for-profit membership organization dedicated to serving the Niagara Region. With over a century of experience, we provide trusted emergency roadside assistance, comprehensive insurance, travel services and Member-exclusive discounts and rewards.

CAA Niagara is also proud to operate AAPEX Driving Academy, helping drivers hit the road with confidence, and Niagara Airbus, offering stress-free transportation solutions.

Driven by a commitment to safety, value, and community impact, CAA Niagara champions initiatives that enhance the quality of life for our Members and the broader community. With a focus on innovation and member engagement, we strive to provide peace of mind and exceptional service, empowering our Members to enjoy life's journey to the fullest.

About Niagara Children’s Centre

Niagara Children’s Centre provided rehabilitation and support services to more than 6,200 children and youth last year across the Niagara Region with physical, developmental and communicative delays. The range of services includes physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech and language services, augmentative and alternative communication, family services and therapeutic recreation.

About Humane Society of Greater Niagara:

For more than 144 years, the Humane Society of Greater Niagara (HSGN) has been a lifeline for animals in crisis across the Niagara Region.

HSGN provides a fully integrated continuum of animal welfare services, including sheltering and adoption, municipal animal care and control, provincial sheltering support, wildlife and exotic animal response, and Ontario's first public full-service veterinary clinic operated by a humane society. Each year, more than 4,500 animals depend on HSGN for safety, medical care, and a second chance. Since 2011, the clinic has performed more than 81,000 spay and neuter surgeries.

HSGN's work extends beyond its shelters. Through a pet food bank, subsidized veterinary care, and emergency assistance programs, the organization helps people and pets stay together — keeping hundreds of animals out of the shelter system each year.

Supported by more than 200 monthly volunteers and a dedicated team available 24/7, HSGN believes every animal deserves safety, comfort, and the opportunity to heal — and that the bond between people and animals is worth protecting

2026 Community Boost Recipients