Belong Ottawa’s staff and volunteers ensured the afternoon featured great food, sweet treats, and lively music. Participants and guests alike noted the positive, energetic atmosphere.

“It is wonderful to share fun moments like this together,” said Tracy Cape, Centre 454 program manager.

By the end of the event, an impressive 335 meals had been served, nearly 200 more than a typical lunch service.

Belong Ottawa plans to host a barbeque each month this summer across all locations, continuing to bring people together through food and community. The next event will be on June 19, 2026 at The Well.

Donate today to help us continue creating welcoming spaces, serving meals, and bringing our community together all summer long.

Looking to support our summer barbeques? Reach out to discuss how you or your business can sponsor and get involved.

The post Centre 454 serves 335 lunches during first summer barbeque appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

200 Years of Ottawa/Bytown, In Story and Song brings the city’s history to life through engaging storytelling and lively folk music. Blending beloved songs from their albums with new compositions inspired by Ottawa and the Valley, this performance offers a heartfelt and entertaining celebration of our shared past.

Best of all, this is a benefit concert in support of Belong Ottawa’s Centre 454 program, helping provide essential supports and a welcoming community space for people in need.

📅 Event Details

Saturday, February 7
🕖 Doors open at 7:00 PM
🎵 Music starts at 7:30 PM

🎤 Learn more about the Paul Weber Band at http://www.paulweber.ca

🎟️ Tickets are available now—buy yours today!
📘 Attending? Let us know by RSVPing on our Facebook Event page and invite your friends.

Come out for a great night of music, stories, and community—while supporting Belong Ottawa. We hope to see you there!

The post 200 Years of Ottawa/Bytown – Supporting Centre 454 appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

As applause filled the room in the centre, a slice of rich chocolate cake appeared, paired with a birthday card brimming with kind words and well wishes. This July, Red chose to spend his birthday at Belong Ottawa—a place that has become a steady presence in his life. 

When asked about his favourite dessert, Red didn’t hesitate: “Cheesecake.” As for meals, he enjoys cooking a wide variety of dishes. But right now, experimenting in the kitchen isn’t possible. Without stable housing, Red faces barriers that make even basic routines like cooking a meal a challenge. 

Originally from London, Ontario, Red later moved to Quebec before settling in Ottawa. He’s worked in trades like landscaping and construction, but despite his skills and experience, he has often had to rely on shelters and social services to get by. Today, finding affordable housing feels harder than ever. 

“There are no leads on housing,” he explains. “Especially with what is affordable.” 

With limited income through Ontario Works, Red’s housing options are few. He hopes that rental subsidies or other supports might open doors in the future. For now, services like Belong Ottawa provide stability. 

“If it weren’t for places like this, I would have likely starved a long time ago.” 

Red’s words are a powerful reminder of why this work matters. In July alone, Belong Ottawa prepared and served 15,789 meals across our three day–programs—that’s 15,789 times someone didn’t have to go hungry. 

But as Red points out, food and shelter are only part of the picture. He believes in the importance of investing in people and ensuring support systems can thrive. 

“Invest in people. Instead of just being afloat, you can help people turn themselves around. Access to support—it should be standard.” 

Today, Red’s easy smile and quick humour are well known at Belong Ottawa. His story is one of resilience, and a reminder that behind every meal or shower offered is a person with hopes, challenges, and dreams. 

At Belong Ottawa, we continue to serve thousands of meals each month, and just as importantly, we create opportunities for connection, care, and community. Because everyone deserves to feel valued, supported—and to belong. 

Your gift can help someone like Red feel seen, supported, and valued.
Click here to donate today

Together, we can make sure everyone has a place to belong.

The post Celebrating Red: A Birthday, a Story, and the Power of Belonging appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

Affectionately known as “field trips,” outings with Belong Ottawa offer more than a change of scenery — they open doors to parts of our capital city often out of reach for those experiencing homelessness or precarious housing. Whether due to financial barriers, lack of transportation, or simply not having someone to go with, many of our Participants face significant challenges accessing recreational spaces. For individuals existing in survival mode — constantly navigating questions like Where will I sleep tonight? How can I afford my next meal? — leisure, recreation and exploration are luxuries they rarely have the privilege to consider. Outings like this one to the National Gallery of Canada help disrupt the cycle of poverty, housing insecurity, addictions, and hunger. By creating opportunities for connection, adventure, and joy, we work to reduce isolation and foster a sense of belonging, dignity, and community.

For individuals existing in survival mode — constantly navigating questions like Where will I sleep tonight? How can I afford my next meal? — leisure, recreation and exploration are luxuries they rarely have the privilege to consider.

Approaching the gallery from Sussex Drive, the group took in the stunning sight of the building’s grand glass façade, gleaming under rays of sunshine and a brilliant blue sky—a welcome change after spring’s unpredictable weather. Inside, the architectural beauty continued to impress, revealing a hidden world brimming with art and imagination. As they stepped into the gallery’s vast spaces, participants gravitated toward installations that spoke to them, sparking conversations filled with laughter, personal stories, and reflections on creativity, connections, and inspiration.

While exploring the exhibits, Tracy C., Program Manager with Belong Ottawa, shared her reflections. “This trip made me think of enjoying the simple things, things we take for granted sometimes, and how this experience is so important to share with others.”

Connecting with others is truly important when it comes to quality of life; according to Statistics Canada, there are five attributes that contribute to comfort, health, and happiness. One of these categories, society, encompasses social connection and community building, aspects of healthy living and wellness often overlooked. At Belong Ottawa, we embody and endorse quality of life through our mission: connecting people, fostering community, and delivering programs that meet basic needs through a holistic, person-centered approach.

“This trip made me think of enjoying the simple things, things we take for granted sometimes, and how this experience is so important to share with others.” – Tracy C., Program Manager

After a meaningful afternoon of exploring the exhibits, the Belong Ottawa group gathered at the exit of the National Gallery, reflecting on their shared experience, the conversations, and the sense of connection it fostered. “This is the first time I have done something like this,” a Participant shared, “where I spent time with a group and got to do something new.”

“Thank you,” said another Participant, “for making this possible for us and for helping me feel welcome.”

At Belong Ottawa, everyone is valued and supported. For this field trip, we discovered more than history and art – we uncovered purpose, connection, and community amidst us. 

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The post Art, Connection, and Community: Belong Ottawa at the National Gallery appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

This month, Belong Ottawa is shining a spotlight on members of our team who are connected to the social work -profession, sharing their reflections on their work, passion, and dedication to supporting others.

For nearly four years, Reina has been a staff member at Belong Ottawa, first as a front-line worker and then as a Case Worker with the Income Services Team. Today, she proudly holds the title of Registered Social Worker, following a journey of exploration and deep-rooted passion.

“I’ve always been exposed to the field of social services,” says Reina as she reflects on how she began her work. She volunteered in a variety of settings, notably including a shelter program and a drop-in program for youth – experiences she looks back on fondly.

When beginning her post-secondary studies, Reina pursued an undergraduate degree in Criminology, which she completed. Through this education, she started her professional career working in a law firm as an administrative assistant, primarily supporting victims of vehicle accidents. “Through this role, I got a taste of what it’s like to be in a helping field,” she reflects. This connection to supporting others was just the beginning, and she soon wanted to expand her impact.

Reina then earned her bachelor’s in social work from Lakehead University, and upon graduation, she registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers. This membership allows her to hold the title of Registered Social Worker, a protected designation that reflects her commitment to upholding professional and ethical standards – an essential aspect of her ongoing work.

In her role as an Income Support Worker, Reina frequently navigates situations that demand strict adherence to professional standards – from meeting with clients and community service professionals while ensuring confidentiality to offering authentic empathy to individuals sharing their hardships as they seek additional support.

“The work that I am doing is led by ethics, which continues to be a guiding principle in my practice,” she shares. “As a social worker, I want to make sure that I am always providing a safe and non-judgmental space for the clients I am seeing.”

For others who are looking to pursue social work, Reina shares the importance of being open. “Remain open in terms of learning opportunities,” she starts. “It is important to constantly engage in continuing education and professional development.” Despite completing two bachelor’s degrees and having a number of years of experience, Reina final piece of advice is powerful: “Ensure that you value the lived experience of the clients you work with. They know their story best, and we are here to help along the way.”

Reina’s dedication to her work with Belong Ottawa highlights the deep connection between her role as a social worker and the organization’s mission. As she puts it, “Our vision and mission align with my idea of what providing good social support is to folks in our community. I am very proud to work for an organization that helps the most vulnerable in our community access their basic needs.” Reina’s pride in her work and the impact of Belong Ottawa’s mission are a testament to the essential role social workers plays in fostering stronger, more inclusive communities for all.

The post National Social Work Month – Reina P., Registered Social Worker appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

This month, Belong Ottawa is shining a spotlight on members of our team who are connected to the social work profession, sharing their reflections on their work, passion, and dedication to supporting others.

As a Registered Social Worker, Jason’s role involves a dynamic blend of client support, advocacy, and collaboration with other professionals. For almost four years, he’s been an integral part of Belong Ottawa’s Income Support Team, where he helps community members apply for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and connects them to vital resources and supports to meet their needs.

When asked what a “typical” day looks like, Jason chuckles. It’s a broad question because no two days are ever the same. “I’m always on the move,” he explains, “whether I’m connecting people to resources, booking ODSP appointments, or helping clients access Ontario Works.” Jason’s work goes beyond the office, as he travels around the city to meet with clients and collaborate with other service providers.

Jason’s history with social services extends beyond his current role with Belong Ottawa – he has been volunteering with non-profit agencies for almost 20 years, reinforcing his commitment to support and care for his community. This inspired him to pursue his studies at Carleton University, where he received a bachelor’s degree in social work. “I’ve always been interested in issues relating to social justice, inequality, and housing,” he shared.

“Ultimately, I wanted to be a part of improving people’s lives.”

To be effective in his work, Jason emphasizes collaboration is key. “It is impossible to do this work effectively without collaboration with our clients, teams, volunteers, and community partners. Together, we can make a difference.”

Reflecting on the challenges new social workers may face today, Jason acknowledges the increased difficulties in the field and shared pieces of advice. “Be a life-long learner and be willing to adjust and reflect on where you can improve, but also on what you are doing right. You will learn from your clients, and other times you will learn from working with new populations and new people.” For Jason, an example of this continued learning includes studying Spanish and French languages to better communicate with clients.

Jason’s perspective is clear: “We can’t do it all but look at what we can do together.” His approach highlights the importance of collaboration and reminds us while challenges may be significant, the collective effort can lead to meaningful change. Through his work, Jason continues to embody the essence of social work: helping others navigate complex systems, advocating for their needs, and ensuring they have access to the resources that can improve their lives. Jason exemplifies what Belong Ottawa is all about.

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At Belong Ottawa, Yoonis brings his same spirit of care to the kitchen. For the past few years, he has been a dedicated kitchen support volunteer. “I love it,” Yoonis says, speaking of the satisfaction that comes with a well-run kitchen. For him, working in the kitchen is more than a task; it’s about creating a space where everyone can contribute and feel nourished.

Inclusivity is what Yoonis values most about his experience with Belong Ottawa. When asked about the phrase “We All Belong,” Yoonis is quick to respond, “Belonging is community. You can see the impact of what we do everyday. People from backgrounds all over the world are at Belong Ottawa because we accept and welcome everyone. This is how places everywhere should.” 

He believes community is at the heart of his work, adding, “Belong Ottawa is about community, and it’s exactly what we have here. I have a community here.”

Yoonis’ commitment to helping others goes beyond Belong Ottawa. Before he joined, he volunteered in a group home for six years. Whether caring for others there or cleaning up after meals at The Well, Yoonis holds onto one simple philosophy: “Do everything with kindness.”

His dedication and positive attitude make him an integral part of Belong Ottawa’s team. By ensuring the kitchen stays clean and meals are ready to serve, Yoonis helps create a welcoming environment where everyone belongs.

Belong Ottawa provides daily meals to over 300 participants, making our meal service the largest offering we have.

Want to support our meal program? Click here.

We All Belong

In celebration of 70 years at Centre 454, 41 years at St Luke’s Table, and 40 years at The Well, Belong Ottawa is telling the stories of our diverse community members and how they have found belonging within our programs. Follow along with #WeAllBelong and #BelongOttawa.

The post We All Belong – Yoonis’ Story appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

Those values of compassion and solidarity shaped Irene’s life. Whether living in a small town or a big city like Ottawa, she’s always felt a deep sense of duty to care for the most vulnerable. This drive led her to volunteer at the Distress Centre of Ottawa and Region and The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre.

For the last eight years, Irene has been part of the frontlines at Belong Ottawa’s Centre 454, volunteering at the reception desk and helping people navigate Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) applications. “What I love most is the people,” she says. “From the participants to the staff, it’s a community.”

Irene draws on her upbringing to create meaningful connections at Centre 454, consistently guided by empathy. “It’s important to always see the person behind the situation,” she shares. “The smallest thing can go wrong, and your life can be profoundly different. People are not their circumstances.”

With the increasing needs of people post-pandemic, Irene believes community support is more vital than ever. When asked what “We All Belong” means to her, she replies, “We’re all part of one community on this earth, but not everyone has the same experiences or opportunities. It’s our responsibility to show people that they belong, to look out for each other.”

For Irene, if there is a need, she will continue to volunteer. She views her role at Belong Ottawa as a small, yet essential part of a larger system of care. “We all have something to offer. Whether it’s donations, skills, or time—everyone has a way they can contribute. We have a responsibility to each other.”

As part of Belong Ottawa’s volunteer program, volunteers can support a variety of functions including the front desk, recreation, cooking, and special events. There are many ways to get involved and make a difference.

Inspired by Irene’s dedication to making a difference? Click here to learn how you can support our work.

We All Belong

In celebration of 70 years at Centre 454, 41 years at St Luke’s Table, and 40 years at The Well, Belong Ottawa is telling the stories of our diverse community members and how they have found belonging within our programs. Follow along with #WeAllBelong and #BelongOttawa.

The post We All Belong – Irene’s Story appeared first on Belong Ottawa.

“The faces at Belong Ottawa bring me joy every day.”

For the past 13 years, Cecilia has found a second home at Belong Ottawa’s drop-in programs at Centre 454 and The Well. As a longtime participant, Cecilia has found comfort coming to Belong Ottawa for many reasons, and above them all is the staff who have supported her across many chapters in her life.

“At Centre 454 and The Well, the staff have been awesome. They have helped me a lot. If it weren’t for them, I would not be on my journey to finding myself again.” 

Over the years, Cecilia has triumphed over personal challenges with staff at Belong Ottawa cheering her on. Today, Cecilia is focused on healthy living and self-care, striving to be her best version of herself. While Belong Ottawa offers essential services that nourish the body like respite, meals, and showers, Cecilia’s favourite parts are activities including outings, crafts, and karaoke, which nourish her mind and soul. 

One of Cecilia’s favourite memories is a pre-pandemic karaoke tournament between  Belong Ottawa’s three programs, where her team – Team Centre 454 –  overtook Team The Well and Team St Lukes Table to take home the winning trophy: a sparkling, golden microphone. 

On good days and bad, Cecilia sees Belong Ottawa as a consistent place for support, knowing she will find friendly faces and a safe place to be.

“The part of Belong Ottawa I love the most is the staff. They come in and treat us as they are. They come outside and socialize with us. They talk to us. They put up with us. That is the best part here.”

Belong Ottawa’s team includes staff from diverse backgrounds, many with lived experience. What unites them is their belief in Belong Ottawa’s mission of dignity, wellness, and hope for all. No matter where someone is on their journey, they belong at Belong Ottawa.

For Cecilia, “We All Belong” means community and mutual support, and taking care of one another. “We belong to each other. Every drop-in centre, every shelter – we belong period, and we belong to each other.”

“Respect one another. Do not look down on people. Do not look down on street people because they are human too. Some of them are lost, but they will find their way back.”

As we celebrate 70 years at Centre 454, 41 years at St Luke’s Table, and 40 years at The Well, Cecilia reminds us everyone deserves dignity, even if that starts with a smile.

Help us continue fostering dignity at Belong Ottawa. Click here to learn how you can support our work.

We All Belong

In celebration of 70 years at Centre 454, 41 years at St Luke’s Table, and 40 years at The Well Belong Ottawa is telling the stories of our diverse community members and how they have found belonging within our programs. Follow along with #WeAllBelong and #BelongOttawa.

The post We All Belong – Cecilia’s Story appeared first on Belong Ottawa.