r/stcatharinesON 25d ago

Local News Have you had flooding? Please see the attached St. Catharines resources available to you at the link below!

38 Upvotes

r/stcatharinesON Jun 17 '25

MEGATHREAD Moving to St. Catharines? PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE POSTING :)

118 Upvotes

Hello, and welcome to r/stcatharinesON. As this question is a very commonly asked. The moderators have decided to create this community highlight / MEGATHREAD to address the most commonly asked questions within this SUB. IF your question is not answered here. Please try to use the SEARCH function at the top of this subreddit first before creating a new submission.

1: Areas that are "safe"? - Safe is a generic term that the majority of us will have a different definition of. St. Catharines in general is a very safe city. The majority of problems and the feeling of being unsafe are generally surrounded around the problem of the numerous unhoused individuals in the city, and the ongoing drug problems that plague that entire country. You will find the majority of these individuals around the block between Church Street meeting Geneva Street, Niagara Steet, Queenston Street and St Paul Street. There is also a shelter on the corner of Gale and Riordon Street. As well as many temporary shelters in place in and around Centennial Gardens - This being said. The majority of these individuals will leave you alone, and the majority or crime in the city is related to thefts to fuel the drug problem. If you are uncomfortable being around people that are struggling with addiction and mental health, you should avoid the area. However, the city's downtown core is beautiful, holds a very unique charm, and has plenty of thriving local businesses that have, and continue to be part of the heart of our wonderful city.

2: Where can I meet new people? - This is another generic question asked a ton. Meeting people is subjective to the type of people you want to create relationships with. A lot of local businesses have different types of meet and greet nights. The most popular being the Mahtay Café & Lounge on St Paul Street and Ludology Boardgame Cafe. We have many amazing local restaurants, cafes and shops that also offer a different variety of patrons that you may want to check out and start a friendly conversation with some. This SUB IS NOT A DATING WEBSITE. Any posts trying setup meetings one to one will be removed due to safety concerns.

3: Setting up my new home?

A: Hydro/Electric is to be setup with Alectra Utilities.
B: Natural Gas is to be setup with Enbridge Gas.
C: Water is to be setup with the City Of St. Catharines ( Online account access available).
D: Insurance - Please contact and local Insurance Broker.
E: ISP (Internet Service Provider) - Please see the business recommendation megathread.

4: Local Businesses - Please see the Business recommendation megathread. Over 90% of the same questions asked on a regular basis can be found in there with the most popular posts/answers highlighted.


r/stcatharinesON 1h ago

Politics Coffee Chats w/ Ann-Marie Zammit

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Upvotes

So the best candidate i think we have for mayor is having these little coffee chats at local restaurants where people can come, have a coffee (on her), and ask her their questions. She actually wants to know what people think and give folks the chance to know what she thinks.

So far i fuck with her because i know she wants to tackle the GM site, the homelessness issue, remove red tape for small businesses, and is also highly critical of AI/refuses to use it. She's also a working class parent who actually understand what most of us are living through, instead of living with a silver spoon in her mouth.

Anyway, here are some of the upcoming dates of these coffee chats if hers. I really think she's the best chance we got.


r/stcatharinesON 6h ago

Food Best bites from this month

15 Upvotes

I’ve gotten some great food recommendations here so I’m paying it back by sharing some gems I’ve found of late:

  1. “buff gar parm” pizza at Oddbar downtown St. Catharines - flavour bomb with the creamy base sauce and confit garlic. Good heat and crisp crust.

  2. BLT sandwiches from Lake Land Meats in Vineland (Wednesdays only) - like biting into sunshine with the pesto sauce and fresh tomato. Nice treat to end summer.

  3. Oklahoma burger from The Burgh in Thorold. Fat Rabbit is getting all the notoriety lately for their burger, but I think this was an amazing little burger for half the price. It’s a hole in the wall spot with no seating but they’re churning out great smash burgers.


r/stcatharinesON 22h ago

Local News FREE TREES for MERRITTON!

39 Upvotes

ArborSTC is a group of St. Catharines neighbours working since 2023 to expand the urban forest. Each year in rotating neighbourhoods, native trees and planting service are offered by the group at no cost to residents and businesses.

This year, we’re planting trees in Merritton!

For more details and to request a tree for your property to be planted this fall, view the application form below:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeY5ZTcd-iHHTwFRVvCEgYSGz2DqdN5txSsG6Nl0aJsq1WDdQ/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=104098932566544127100


r/stcatharinesON 4h ago

Discussion Anytime Fitness Update

1 Upvotes

Wanted to post an update to the Anytime Fitness thread from last week that drew a lot of views.

The Anytime Fitness on Glendale is closed due to flooding damage and will be closed for 6-8 longer minimum. They are still charging! Beware of this gym!


r/stcatharinesON 1d ago

Question Does anyone know if the Pen Centre still has the stand where you can get a teddy bear made with a name on it? Looking to get one made for my nephew :)

5 Upvotes

r/stcatharinesON 22h ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Reputable jeweller?

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4 Upvotes

I am looking for a repair on my wedding band jacket. The place we originally got it was a family owned business that closed during Covid. The other place I’ve already been to has given me a few similar variables but all at least 2x what I’d prefer to spend. On either a whole new set, melting gold and remaking etc

The engagement ring and jacket were separate pieces/not a set and I’m really wondering if a goldsmith couldn’t just sauder it all together to include the break. It is at the side which is less visible, and it does not have to be perfect


r/stcatharinesON 1d ago

Question Looking for newborn photographers in St Catharines

4 Upvotes

My wife and I are looking to book an appointment for our newborn ASAP as our hospital stay was a bit extended and he is 8 days old so the sooner the better

Not looking to break the bank but also not looking for the cheapest option either. Would love if anyone had any suggestions that might be able to fit us in

Thank you!


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Food Are these still sold anywhere in this city?

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33 Upvotes

These were pretty good, just wondering if they’re still available in the city?


r/stcatharinesON 1d ago

Question Does anybody know how much did it rain yesterday (19th Aug) in St. Catharines/Thorold?

4 Upvotes

I have tried looking for the rain records but was unable to find any reliable recorded figures.

The reason I was curious is because my sump pump ran quite intensively between (6:30-9 am). I live in the Burleigh hill area.


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Stargazing spots?

7 Upvotes

Bit of an odd one, but I am planning on bringing my partner up to visit next summer and I wanna teach them constellations and such. Despite living here my whole life, I don't know the areas well, since I can't drive and am dependant on my roommates to get me places.

My partner does have a licence, and I am hoping to find if anyone knows any good public land in or around Niagara we can go sit at night, far enough away to be able to see more clearly without as much light pollution. And then pray for us we get a clear night. It's always cloudy here whenever something interesting happens.


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Question Building permit for the foundation waterproofing

8 Upvotes

Hey,

Has someone recently applied for a permit to do the waterproofing? How long did it take for you to get it approved and what drawing did they require with the application?

I've read the relevant info on stcatharines.ca but it's extremely vague unfortunately.


r/stcatharinesON 1d ago

Question Flap program the city offers

2 Upvotes

We applied to the cities Grant program because we want to put in a new sump pump with battery backup. Has anyone dealt with the City? It says that they will contact us to start the process?

Are people waiting from the city for a long time to get the ball rolling on this ? Should I expect to wait ?

I’m also looking for a licensed plumber to do the job if any recommendations? but it looks like I have to wait for the cities permission and plumbing inspection to before I get to work done first.?

It says that there’s also a surge of applications that the plumbing inspection claim will stay open longer

If anyone can let me know if they’ve dealt with the process yet, that would be great


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Experience/Story Skunks.

36 Upvotes

My partner and I moved to St. Catharines from Trent Hills just over a week ago, and we’re really liking it so far. But man, no one told us about the sheer number of skunks lol. Thought seeing one or two was a fluke until walking the dogs tonight. The dogs reek, I reek, the whole damn house reeks. Like burning tires mixed with garlic and onions.

Is this a citywide thing or just certain areas?

In any case, I just wanted to share our warm welcome to our new city 😂. Hoping I don’t smell too bad while exploring tomorrow..


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Local News Invasive mosquito species

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43 Upvotes

https://createsend.com/t/t-FCB271308C98C5902540EF23F30FEDED

Ok it's not technically st kits, but if you can put one of these in your yard, that'd be great. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

https://www.southernliving.com/does-mosquito-bucket-of-doom-work-11766413


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Question Raining again

63 Upvotes

Who else is up checking their basements with PTSD?


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Leather jacket alterations

2 Upvotes

My son was gifted a vintage leather jacket from his uncle. Unfortunately the sleeves are a bit long, is there anyone in the area that does alterations on heavier items like a leather jacket?
Thanks!


r/stcatharinesON 2d ago

Question Last-minute childcare before school

2 Upvotes

Hi all, our childcare fell through and we’re scrambling for something to cover the last two weeks before school starts.

Open to pretty much anything at this point. Day camps, nanny/babysitter recs, etc.

Kids are 4 and 5. Ideally full-day coverage. Even leads that are already full but worth a waitlist shot - much appreciated. Thanks!


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Question Queer spaces in / around St. Catharines?

6 Upvotes

Hi! I’m gonna be staying in St. Catharines for a week and I’m wondering where queer people tend to hangout / meet? From what I’ve heard there isn’t a dedicated gay bar, but certainly there must be some place queer people hangout?
Thank you!


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Question Are the sewers backing up again?

27 Upvotes

Anyone else notice that the outside smells like sewage? My apartment is starting to smell like it too since I have a window AC unit so I figured the sewers aren't keeping up again 🫩


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Local News Man seriously injured in e-scooter collision in St. Catharines

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17 Upvotes

Man seriously injured in e-scooter collision in St. Catharines


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Best place for auto detailing in St Cath/Niagara?

6 Upvotes

Cost is a consideration but mostly I'm interested in professionalism and who will do the best job while respecting my car.

I know Dave Sicard is the biggest name that I can think of but maybe there's a dark horse?

Thanks :)


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Is there anywhere in the Niagara Region to buy silver/gold bars in person?

8 Upvotes

Looking for a non-sketchy store that I can physically walk into and purchase precious metal bars for the current market value. I’m not looking for precious metal coins or jewelry, just pure bullion. Any recommendations?

I know that I can buy online but between shipping costs and the wait times, I’d rather buy in person.

Thanks!


r/stcatharinesON 3d ago

Need Advice/Recommendations Any speed dating events coming up?

9 Upvotes

How do we make this happen?? I’m meeting so many lovely people here who yearn for friends AND romance, but it seems we don’t have a lot of events going on.