Dear Friend,

The past few months at Belong Ottawa have been filled with a renewed sense of purpose and hope. From launching our inaugural Ride for Refuge—our first official fundraiser—to sharing the deeply human stories that lie at the heart of our mission, these have been seasons of gratitude and growth.

Since early June, in collaboration with other City of Ottawa funded day programs, we began tracking key data to better understand our impact. What we have learned is humbling and powerful: since June 2 this year, Belong Ottawa has prepared and served over 81,000 meals.

These are not just numbers. Each meal represents a moment of care, dignity, and connection—a moment someone was seen, fed, and reminded they matter. Behind every plate of food is a person facing the daunting challenges of hunger, poverty, homelessness, substance use, mental health concerns, and isolation. One participant said simply and powerfully:


 “Without places like Belong Ottawa, I would have starved a long time ago.” 


As winter draws near, the urgency of our work rises. The cold months bring freezing temperatures along with fear, loneliness, and hunger. At Belong Ottawa, we are resolute to meet this season with warmth—with nourishing meals, safe spaces, and compassionate care.

We cannot do this alone.


Your generosity keeps our doors open, our centres warm, and hope alive. Every gift—large or small—helps ensure no one is left out in the cold. Together, we can continue to create a community where everyone belongs, has access to meals, and finds a warm and safe place to rest.

Please give today. Your kindness changes lives.

With deep gratitude,

Shauna-marie Young

Executive Director

Our Story In Numbers

Since June, Belong Ottawa has been carefully tracking every meal served, every shower provided, every load of laundry completed, and every respite offered. What we have learned is distressing. The numbers tell a staggering story of our city in crisis—of neighbours facing deepening and crushing poverty, hunger, and homelessness as the cost of living continues to climb and access to affordable housing remains out of reach for many.

Each new day brings more people through our doors, desperately seeking warmth, nourishment, and dignity. The need is increasing faster than ever before. It is urgent, and it is now—your support has never been more essential.

From June 2 to October 26 2025



81,621 meals prepared and served

3483 showers provided

3919 loads of laundry completed

4830 respites offered



Each number signifies a person—a fellow citizen—seeking warmth, safety, and dignity amid rising costs and dwindling options. This is not just data; it is a call to action.

Together, we can bring warmth, dignity, and care to those who need it most. Give today so no one faces the cold alone.



Ride for Refuge: Belong Ottawa in Motion

On October 4, Belong Ottawa hosted its very first Ride for Refuge—and what a day it was! With 20 volunteers and 58 walkers, cyclists, and supporters, we joined forces to raise awareness and funds for those seeking hope, safety, and freedom—including the participants we serve every day.

Thanks to your incredible support, the event was a resounding success. We met our goal, and raised $23,520, most of which goes directly toward sustaining Belong Ottawa’s programs and services.

We were thrilled to partner with St. Aidan’s Anglican Church, whose welcoming space in the Elmvale Acres neighbourhood provided a perfect backdrop for our ride and post-event celebration. From the scenic route to the joyful gathering in the church courtyard, the day was filled with connection, purpose, and heart. We also are grateful to HUB International and Cundell Plumbing for their generous sponsorship of our Ride for Refuge, and their steadfast support of our mission.



Mark your calendars for next year’s Ride for Refuge—October 3, 2026! We look forward to riding together again! 

BBQ Bliss!

To bid summer farewell, Belong Ottawa hosted two community barbeque events filled with food, fun, and connection.

At McNabb Park, St Luke’s Table and The Well served over 200 delicious grilled lunches to participants and guests. The day was bursting with sunshine, music, and wonderful conversation. Our amazing community partners joined in the fun—helping make the day even more vibrant and memorable. The air was alive with the scent of sizzling food and the sound of genuine connections. Thank you to Councilor Ariel Troster, and Ottawa Police Service's Constable Stephanie Lemieux for joining us!

At Centre 454, participants gathered in the courtyard for a festive barbecue complete with music, crafts, and bubbles! From the first bite to the last burst of laughter, the day was a reminder of the simple joy found in connecting.

These were meals and moments of belonging. Shared laughter, food, and hope—a beautiful reminder community nourishes us all.

Supporting The Well's Shower Program - Thank YOU!


Our participants share how vital access to a shower is—for cleanliness, care, dignity, and a sense of normalcy. A warm shower and a safe space to tend to one’s personal hygiene can be transformative, especially for those navigating life without stable housing, access to a shower, or a clean towel and soap.

This summer, the accessible shower at The Well was out of service and in need of extensive repairs. Recognizing the urgency, Executive Director Shauna-Marie Young made a direct appeal to our community to help Belong Ottawa restore this essential and accessible service.

Thanks to the generosity of individuals, community partners, the City of Ottawa, and local groups, we raised enough to replace the accessible shower at The Well and complete necessary repairs on a shower at Centre 454.

To everyone who donated—thank you. Your support means our participants will continue to have access to the dignity and comfort a warm shower provides, even in the coldest months. 

Shifting Gears for Belong Ottawa - Thank You to the Koi Foundation!


On October 25th, the Koi Foundation (@thekoifoundation), with support from @final.lap.gp, @cargirlsofottawa, @pantheongarage and @rogueatnight, hosted an unforgettable event called “Cars and Coffins”, uniting car enthusiasts and horror fans in support of Belong Ottawa’s programs. The Koi Foundation is a student-led initiative dedicated to improving the lives of those experiencing homelessness. 

During the event, spectators donated warm winter gear, hygiene supplies, and other much-needed items. 

The Koi Foundation truly embodies the generous spirit of our community — thank you for driving change and making a difference!

Donations may be dropped off at:

Belong Ottawa - The Well

154 Somerset St W Ottawa, ON

Monday - Sunday from 8:00am to 1:30pm

Make your donation onlin by clicking here.

Your contribution will directly support Belong Ottawa's programs and services. 

We thank our community of funders, donors, partners, volunteers, and staff for supporting our work to build safe spaces that connect people and create community.