Partnering for Care: Building Stronger Systems for Caregivers
NIAGARA FALLS, ON — The NOHT-ÉSON and Heart Niagara will host Partnering for Care: Building Stronger Systems for Caregivers on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, bringing together caregivers and the organizations that support them for a welcoming, in-person day of learning, connection, and collaborative action.
The summit will help build a shared understanding of caregiving in Niagara today—what supports exist, where barriers remain, and what’s needed to strengthen caregiver wellbeing and access to respite. Participants will have opportunities to learn from lived experience, identify gaps in current pathways, and explore practical opportunities for cross-sector collaboration.
Event details
Partnering for Care: Building Stronger Systems for Caregivers
Date: Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Time: 8:45 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. (summit program begins at 9:20 a.m.)
Location: Firemen’s Park, Niagara Falls, Ontario
Cost: Free (registration required)
Registration: https://tinyurl.com/35kf6phf
“Caregivers are the backbone of our communities, yet too often they’re navigating stress, exhaustion, and fragmented supports on their own. This summit is about recognizing their reality, listening deeply, and bringing partners together to strengthen access to meaningful caregiver respite and support—especially for people facing the greatest barriers,” said Karen Stearne, Executive Director of Heart Niagara.
The event will feature a keynote address from Lauren Bates, Chair of the Ontario Caregiver Coalition, who will share insights on caregiving realities and the importance of strengthening support systems. The day will be facilitated by Chrissy Sadowski, Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement Manager with the Young Caregivers Association, and will include facilitated discussions and information sharing designed to elevate caregiver voices and support coordinated next steps across Niagara.
“Caregiving looks different for every person, but the need for understanding, connection, and practical supports is universal. Our goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where caregivers and organizations can share what’s working, name the gaps, and identify actionable next steps we can move forward on,” said Chrissy Sadowski, Summit Facilitator and Strategic Partnerships and Community Engagement Manager for the Young Caregivers Association.
In addition to the NOHT-ÉSON and Heart Niagara, the event is supported by a collaborative community effort, with participation from local and regional partners committed to strengthening caregiver supports.
