ABOUT US
Care Centre Ottawa is a faith-based charitable organization that exists to provide warm, welcoming support to anyone in need in our local community.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, Care Centre Ottawa hosted two monthly Marketplace days where guest were invited to shop in our full-choice Food Pantry and Clothing Depot and connect with others at our Care Café. We also offered a smaller Marketplace (Food Pantry and Café only) every Thursday afternoon. Throughout the month, guests participated in various workshops, programs and special events designed to strengthen individuals and families and develop an authentic sense of community.
The COVID-19 pandemic caused a shift in our service provision. We began to focus exclusively on our food services, pioneering a unique drive-thru food bank model that allowed us to safely respond to the increased need in our community without skipping a beat. While we were forced to limit some of our in-person support services, such as our cooking classes and employment services, we were able to develop our food program and reach more individuals and families than we ever thought possible. We have also responded to the need for emotional and spiritual support, praying with folks, checking in often, and offering a listening ear.
While we eagerly await the day when we can safely open our doors and provide our full range of support services, we are grateful for the many community partnerships that have allowed us to develop and expand our food program.
Our delivery of services is intentional and focused on two fundamental values – dignity and excellence. It is important to us that our guests feel valued and cared for right from the moment they first make contact with us. We believe it is important to meet people right where they are and to build upon the God-given strengths that neighbours of the Care Centre already possess.
If you are in need – physically, emotionally, spiritually – Care Centre Ottawa is the place for you.
If you are curious about what we were up to prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, check out the video below: