Fall 2025 Newsletter

The Maintenance Services Training Program (MSTP), is The Mission’s groundbreaking job training program. It focuses on providing the skills and training required to be building superintendents and maintenance technicians.

As a newcomer from Uganda, Gloria was working as a healthcare aide but was unable to find more than two to three hours of work a day through a job agency. She knew she needed to find more work hours, more security, and more stability. Then, one day at her church group, Gloria heard about the MSTP, and her interest was piqued.

While she was immediately interested, she also had doubts. She had no real experience in maintenance, and felt daunted, knowing it was typically a field worked by men. But Gloria thought to herself:

Once you learn a skill, you won’t forget it. If I have the will, I can do it.

She applied, and about 6 months later, she stood proudly at the graduation of the MSTP’s pilot cohort, possessing many new skills. Reflecting on her journey, Gloria said:

“When I first started, I had no idea about the simplest things: fixing leaky faucets, fixing doorknobs. I was taught how to use both manual and power tools. I can now do drywall and painting, deep commercial and residential cleaning, minor electrical, carpentry, and plumbing repairs, and so much more.”

Now confident in her knowledge and skills, Gloria has secured the role of Building Superintendent with Urbandale. She’s also thinking about the future:

“Maybe, as I gain more experience and grow, I can also end up training and helping others. I would be glad if more women out there would join this field. If you have the will, you can do it. Words cannot explain how grateful I am for the generous donors; your kindness has allowed me to complete the program without having to worry about any payments. Thank you!”

Well, we think the future is now! In graduating from the MSTP, we believe Gloria is already inspiring more women to apply. Thank you for enabling Gloria and the rest of our MSTP pilot class to be trailblazers. Together, we can continue to grow this transformational program!

John's Story

“Wait until you see it, it’ll blow your mind”
– John

We step into a modest and cozy apartment and take a left to enter the kitchen. John opens the fridge to reveal well-stocked shelves complete with all the grocery basics one would need. As we move into the living space, two kittens’ peek at us shyly, as we invade their space.

To John, this standard apartment filled with everyday items is more than he ever could’ve dreamed of after 9 years of homelessness. His appreciation of what he’s gained through your support is contextualized by what he has lost.

“When I lost my kid and then my wife… I felt like I had nothing. And when you have nothing, why care?”

Facing such tragedy, John moved into self-destructive mode. After a long road of struggle, Mission staff convinced him to join our addiction treatment programs — Stabilization, and Lifehouse. Focused on addiction support through a trauma lens, these programs changed his life. Soon, John felt something he hadn’t felt in a long time — hope for the future.

At the same time, The Mission’s wraparound supports also kicked in. John met with our chaplains regularly for grief counselling. Our dental clinic fitted him with dentures. We helped him unlock uncollected benefits through our tax clinic and relearn how to budget his expenses. We then helped him secure an apartment subsidized by The Mission.

Now, as we sit with him in the safety and security of his new home with his two rescued kittens, John continues to think about his future, where he plans to attend college and become an addictions counsellor. John reflects on your support:

“You didn’t just give me a place to stay; you saved my life and gave me the tools I needed to rebuild it. And through it all, you treated me with kindness and dignity. Thank you.”

Lloyd's Story

"His legacy is that of inspiration. He inspired people to give back, to be more selfless, and to think of those who are less fortunate. He always knew that he'd continue to help those in need at The Ottawa Mission through a legacy gift."
– Brigette

Brigette was a friend of Lloyd’s and an executor of his estate. She remembers how, as he grew older, Lloyd was very much looking forward to reuniting with his beloved late wife, Micheline.

Lloyd always said that his volunteer work at The Mission was a tribute to Micheline. So, it was only fitting that he honour her one final time through an estate gift.

“Lloyd made everyone understand that it’s important to give back to your community, to reach out and help those who are less fortunate."
– Chef Ric

Upcoming Events

Date: Wednesday, September 3, 2025
Location: YMCA of the National Capital Region (180 Argyle Avenue)
Time: 11 a.m.

Chef Ric’s, the social enterprise of The Ottawa Mission, is opening its second location inside the YMCA of the National Capital Region. This exciting partnership will bring healthy, affordable, and delicious food to even more members of our community. The second location officially opens on September 3.

Date: Tuesday, September 23, 2025
Location: Perley Health – Lupton Hall (1750 Russell Road, Ottawa)
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

We’re pleased to host a complimentary Joint Estate Planning Seminar in partnership with other local charities. Featuring insights from legal and financial professionals, the session will explore wills, powers of attorney, and the lasting impact of charitable giving. Complimentary parking will be provided with registration, and a light lunch will be served. To RSVP contact Rachel at 613-868-5435 or rdegreef@ottawamission.com.

Date: Thursday, November 6, 2025
Location: Infinity Convention Centre (2901 Gibford Drive)
Time: 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm.

We’re thrilled to mark the 21st anniversary of The Ottawa Mission’s Food Services Training Program (FSTP) at this year’s Blue Door Gala, proudly presented by Caivan. Named after The Ottawa Mission’s iconic blue doors, the gala symbolizes new beginnings and real hope.

Thanksgiving at The Mission

On October 13th thousands of people will gather in our dining room for a warm Thanksgiving meal, and a chance to connect with a caring community. For only $4.68, you can provide a special Thanksgiving meal to families and people in need. Put a meal on a table and a smile on a face this Thanksgiving.

Provide a Thanksgiving meal today by donating here or calling 613-234-1155.