This profile originally appeared in the 2020-21 Giving Guide. Read the full magazine here.
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
Get in touch
35 Waller St.
Ottawa, Ont.
K1N 7G4
ottawamission.com
mission@ottawamission.com
613-234-1144
Facebook: /OttawaMission
Twitter: @OttawaMission
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