About Project SHARE
For over 37 years, we've been a lifeline for Niagara Falls families facing difficult times. Our name says it all: Support, Housing, Awareness, Resources, Emergency.
Meet Our Team
Behind every meal delivered, every family supported, and every crisis averted is a team of deeply passionate individuals who show up — day after day — because they genuinely care. Our staff bring not just their skills, but their hearts, to everything they do. They are the backbone of Project SHARE, and their unwavering dedication to the Niagara Falls community is what makes it all possible.
Project SHARE is more than a food bank—we're a community safety net. As a non-profit charitable organization, we provide essential support services that improve the lives of individuals and families struggling to meet their basic needs.
Our emergency food program is our most accessed service, but our impact goes far beyond providing meals. We connect people with housing resources, offer guidance through difficult times, raise awareness about poverty in our community, and respond to emergencies with compassion and speed.
Our Mission
To provide essential support services that improve the lives of Niagara Falls individuals and families in need, offering dignity, resources, and hope when it's needed most.
Our Vision
To end the struggle against poverty and empower people in need throughout Niagara Falls, creating a community where everyone has access to food, shelter, and opportunity.
What We Stand For
Our values guide every decision we make and every person we serve.
Dignity & Respect
We interact with every member of our community with compassion, understanding, and genuine care.
Teamwork & Collaboration
We work together—within Project SHARE and across our community—to provide meaningful support.
Inclusivity & Equity
Our services are built on principles of inclusivity, equity, cooperation, and collaboration.
Responsibility & Growth
We maintain fiscal and social responsibility while investing in our team's professional development.
Our Journey
Over 37 years of serving our community
The Beginning
Founded as C.O.E.S. (Coordinated Outreach Emergency Services) with offices on Victoria Avenue.
Becoming Project SHARE
Incorporated and rebranded as Project SHARE—Support, Housing, Awareness, Resources, Emergency. Moved to 1st Avenue.
Growing to Serve More
Expanded operations with a move to Stanley Avenue due to increasing community demand.
A Pillar of the Community
Serving over 17,500 people annually, including 130+ families every single day.
Featured Podcasts
Dive deeper into our mission, hear inspiring stories, and learn how you can make a difference
Nourishing Niagara: The $50,000 Milk Drive Strategy
The initiative is organized around a 50/50 raffle, which serves as a dual-purpose tool for fundraising and engagement — a deliberate choice to make charity exciting and impactful simultaneously.
Project SHARE's Support Initiatives in Niagara Falls
Discover the range of programs Project SHARE offers beyond the food bank — from housing support and emergency services to seasonal programs and community outreach. Learn how these initiatives come together to uplift families across Niagara Falls.
Want to hear more stories and insights from Project SHARE?
Our Leadership
Meet the dedicated volunteers guiding our mission
Board of Directors
Chairperson
Irma Sebastiano
Vice Chairperson
Jim Ferraro
Past Chairperson
Brian Pellow
Treasurer
John Holjak
Secretary
Trent Dark
City Council Representative
Ruth Ann Nieuwesteeg
Executive Director
AJ Heafey
Board Members
Jennifer Guarasci
Mike Knapp
Chris Russell
Deanna Seguin
Dinesh Parakh
Justin Trasmundi
Honorary Members
Karen Stearne
Selina Volpatti
Accessibility Commitment
We're committed to ensuring everyone can participate in our programs and events. If you require accommodations for a disability, please let us know in advance so we can make arrangements.
