Location and Accessibility:

Location

Willow Arts Community (The Willow) is located downtown St. Catharines, Ontario within Silver Spire United Church at 366 St. Paul Street. Our studio and office are on the shared traditional lands of the Haudenosaunee, Anishinaabe, Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, the Neutral Peoples and many other Indigenous people from across Turtle Island. We offer our sincere gratitude and respect to the original and continued stewards of this land. We also acknowledge Indigenous, Black, People of Colour and 2SLGBTQQAI+ People that have been marginalized for centuries and more – and our collective responsibility to take action for a better world free from oppression, discrimination, and racism. 

Accessibility

There are ramps to enter the building from the St. Paul Street entrance and Head Street entrance and a lift to access all floors. There are two accessible washroom in the building, plus a few genderless washrooms. Willow members do not have to be sober to participate, and we follow our Code of Conduct in our Member Handbook to make decisions based on behaviour and safety. Oftentimes, members are nervous to attend the first time due to symptoms of their mental health. Staff are available at the start of each program to welcome you into the building and help you feel more comfortable being in a new space with new people. Call or text our cellphone 905-328-9277 if you need assistance.

Parking and Bus Terminal

There is a small, free parking lot at the corner of Bond Street and Head Street and paid parking on the streets. Parking is free after 6 PM. The St. Catharines Bus Terminal is 400 metres away. 

Entering the Building

The doors of the facility are typically locked and there are buzzers installed with video displays and remote unlocking capabilities. We kindly ask that members arrive no more than 10 mins early and to exit the facility upon the completion of the course or activity. Text or call 905-328-9277 if you need assistance getting into the building.

About Silver Spire United Church:

Silver Spire affirms diversity by including and celebrating people of every age, race, belief, culture, ability, income level, family configuration, gender, gender identity, and sexual orientation. It is their desire to be a welcoming and affirming sacred space for all. Silver Spire is home to Willow Arts Community, Carousel Players (theatre organization for youth) as well as various recovery programs in the evenings. Silver Spire hosts a shower program for folks living close to the streets and from time to time serves as a drop in shelter. It is a dynamic and busy building where the arts and social justice meet.