Charities

Overview

Ottawa is a caring community, with hundreds of registered charities, both local, provincial and national. From international health, safety and advocacy, to local chapters of major health and research organizations, there is bound to be a charity that could use your help, either through volunteering or making a donation.

Children are often the most at risk, and there are many excellent charities that support and protect children’s health, safety and well-being. Places like Big Brothers Big Sisters, The Boys and Girls Club, the YMCA/YWCA, Ten Oaks Project and the Youth Services Bureau offer safe spaces for kids to exercise, learn and play, while CHEO, the Max Keeping Foundation, Children’s Aid Society and the Canadian Paediatric Society focus on health and well-being.

Homelessness is a serious issue, and there are several shelters and organizations that can help people find a safe place to live either in temporary spaces or permanent ones. Most at risk are teens, the GLBT community, women, immigrants, the elderly and the disabled. Also, don’t forget our four-legged friends. The Ottawa Humane Society provides care for pets who are sick, injured or homeless.