A Lifelong Commitment to Community and Compassion

Kate Ostryhon-Lumsden, the co-owner of Niagara Sold by Kate alongside her daughter Nicki, has spent almost 40 years in the real estate business(licensed in 1986), yet her roots in Niagara run even deeper. A lifelong resident of Wainfleet, Kate’s career and community involvement reflect a deep-seated commitment to helping others - a mission that began long before her successful real estate career.

From the outset of her career, Kate was driven by a desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Having studied psychology, Kate started her professional journey at a time of change in the region during the amalgamation of local municipalities. It was clear to her from the beginning that her passion for helping others was not just about making housing decisions - it was about making a lasting impact on people's lives. “I’ve always had a heart for helping people,” Kate says, “It’s just who I am. I’ve been blessed with the intelligence and ability to help others.”

Her connection with Port Cares began over 30 years ago when the organization was in its early stages. Introduced to Port Cares by Barb Sockovie, Kate’s early involvement started with her volunteering and quickly evolved as she recognized the organization's growing need for support. “I couldn’t be as active initially until my children grew up, but I was involved with the family center program and saw the critical need for early childhood education,” she explains. As the organization expanded, Kate’s contributions did as well, evolving into a strong and unwavering commitment to ensuring the community’s most vulnerable had access to the services and support they need.

For Kate, her work with Port Cares is about far more than just charity, it’s about creating long-term change. She believes that providing food and shelter is the foundation for addressing life's many challenges. “When people have guaranteed security, they can focus on other aspects of their lives,” she shares. It’s this belief that drives her vision for the future of the organization, to continue growing, especially in areas like affordable housing. “I see a great future for Port Cares, especially with the potential to expand housing options. Affordable housing frees up resources for families to focus on growth, health, and education.”

Kate is deeply committed to ensuring that others see the value in supporting organizations like Port Cares. She works quietly behind the scenes, networking and inviting others to get involved, especially local business owners. “It’s astonishing when people in business don’t support the community,” she reflects. As a successful realtor, Kate doesn’t just sell homes, she builds relationships. “My business is about commitment, trust, and education. I don’t just sell a house; I help people make informed decisions that impact their lives for years to come.”

In addition to her professional expertise, Kate’s personal values are also shaped by her work with Port Cares. “In real estate, you meet people with all kinds of challenges,” she explains. "It helps you develop empathy, listen, and understand people’s needs.” It’s through this lens that Kate approaches both her business and her community involvement. Her vision is clear; a unified approach to helping people, one that extends beyond just food and shelter, but also empowers families and children to thrive.

Vision for the Future

Kate’s hopes for the future are as clear as her lifelong commitment to Port Cares. She envisions a more connected and supported community, one where the services provided by Port Cares are available to every family. “I’d love to see another building, more provisions for the center to serve more people,” she says. “There’s so much potential, and with affordable housing, we can break the cycle of poverty and give children and families the chance to dream big.”

Through her work with Port Cares, Kate has learned invaluable lessons about life, work, and community. She’s a firm believer in sharing real stories, showing empathy, and empowering others to take-action. Her guiding principle is simple:

Kate’s unwavering dedication to Port Cares and her vision for a stronger, more unified community serve as an inspiration to all. Her impact is immeasurable, and as she continues her journey, she remains a true ambassador for change in Niagara.