The Ottawa Mission

Since 1906, The Ottawa Mission - our city’s oldest and largest emergency shelter - has been at the forefront of caring for people who are homeless and in need in our community. We do this by providing the basic necessities of life, including food, shelter and clothing. And then we do even more – we help people regain their dignity, hope and purpose in life. 

Today, in Ottawa, there are too many people who struggle with poverty, addiction and poor mental health. Last year we served 520,373 meals and provided safe shelter to more than 1,700 people. We also provided addiction and trauma treatment, mental health services, care at our medical and dental clinics, housing support and care for terminally ill men and women at our hospice. The Mission also offers education and job training to help people change their lives for the better.

At a glance

Year founded: 1906

Geographic region of focus: Ottawa region

Total revenue for last fiscal year: $10,571,756

Top funding sources:

• Individual: 44%
• Government: 41.73%
• Corporate: 5.41%
• Other Charities: 0.23%
• Other: 8.63%

How you can help

Through corporate partnerships, The Ottawa Mission is able to expand its programs to help more individuals and increase opportunities for those who use our services to improve their lives.

As a corporate partner of The Ottawa Mission Foundation, you can give back to your community and also provide engaging and meaningful opportunities for your employees. Your support is particularly important during a time when COVID-19 protocols mean increased costs for The Ottawa Mission.

In 2019, we launched the Business on a Mission (BOAM) program. This program has allowed The Ottawa Mission Foundation to cultivate a strong offering of options so any business, small or large, can engage with The Ottawa Mission. The BOAM program can:

• Increase your revenues
• Support your corporate social responsibility goals
• Inspire your employees
• Raise your community profile
• Align your business with the city’s oldest and largest emergency shelter

The BOAM program offers high-profile sponsorships, employee engagement opportunities, partnerships of exciting special initiatives, a popular cause-related marketing program and several other options to answer your corporate giving needs. 

It takes a strong community to build successful businesses, and communities need the support of successful businesses to help those most in need. 

For more information and to start a conversation please visit: www.ottawamission.com/corporate-giving or contact Erin Helmer, senior officer, corporate philanthropy and partnerships at ehelmer@ottawamission.com

Events and fundraising

Virtual tour for all!

Have you ever wondered what happens behind the blue door at 35 Waller St.? Have some questions about our services but have not had a chance to ask? Perhaps you want to hear some inspiring stories about the life-changing care individuals receive while using The Ottawa Mission?

Now is the time to sit back in the comfort of your home or office and see all The Ottawa Mission has to offer. If you would like to book a virtual 360 tour and learn more about The Ottawa Mission, please contact Erin Helmer at ehelmer@ottawamission.com.

Young Professionals Network (YPN)

YPN is a volunteer-led collective of young professionals and philanthropists who want to network, volunteer, advocate and raise money to help people who are homeless and in need at The Mission. To learn more contact Jennifer Graves at jgraves@ottawamission.com.

Board members and executives

Matt Triemstra
General manager, Ensight Canada

Jack Murta
Former member of parliament and co-ordinator of the National Parliamentary Prayer Breakfast

Dr. Robert Cushman
Director of biologics and genetic therapies directorate, Health Canada

Scott Hannant
Carleton University professor and director of public affairs and communications at the Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addictions

Rev. Dr. Anthony Bailey
Lead minister, Parkdale United Church

Shaun Baron
International policy advisor, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada

Gord Lorimer
Architect and partner, Hobin Architecture Inc.

Sgt. Carl DeJong
Detective, Ottawa Police Service

Peter Saunders
Associate director of national operations, Canadian Blood Services

Kaite Burkholder Harris
Executive director, Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa

Alan McCafferty
Founder, The Strategic Consulting Group

Elie Labaky
Lawyer, Labaky Law

Tony Bennett
Former president & CEO, BMO Private Investment