Dear Friends,

In a year marked by rising housing costs, economic uncertainty, and growing demand for affordable housing, Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa remained focused on building opportunities. Opportunities that empower families to build strength, stability, and self-reliance through affordable homeownership.

2024 was a year of momentum and growth. Thanks to your generosity and partnership, we proudly completed Kemptville Korners, a 15-unit development in partnership with Habitat Thousand Islands. This milestone marked more than just the end of a successful build; it welcomed our 100th family served!

2024 also marked a year of growth for our ReStores, which continue to be a vital part of our organization and the community. Not only do our ReStores divert usable goods from landfills, but the revenue generated from ReStore operations also funds our efforts to build more homes for more families. With the opening of our new ReStore location at 250 City Centre Avenue in Hintonburg, we’re thrilled to extend our impact even further.

Beyond the build, we partnered with Habitat organizations from across the country at Habitat on the Hill in Ottawa. Together, we met with Members of Parliament from the region to advocate for policy changes aimed at removing the barriers that prevent lower-income and underserved families from achieving homeownership. We were proud to raise our voices alongside other local Habitats, pushing for systemic change and meaningful solutions to the housing crisis.

As we reflect on the past year’s achievements and milestones, the need for affordable housing remains a pressing concern. Over 80% of Ontarians say that owning a home is now out of reach. As a community, we must continue to address and challenge the systems that make homeownership unattainble for so many families.

At Habitat Greater Ottawa, the impact of our work is not measured solely by the number of homes we build but by the families we serve. Behind every door is a family whose future is changed, and whose children will grow up in stability and financial security that will last for generations.

It took over 30 years to reach 100 families served. Now, we’re setting our sights on an ambitious goal: to serve the next 100 families within the next five years. To achieve this, we need you – our sponsors, donors, community partners and volunteers. Your support has helped us get to where we are today. Let’s keep the momentum going.

Thank you to everyone who has generously contributed to our work and for being a part of the Habitat solution. Together, we build a brighter future.