There was a barely audible buzz from the amplifiers inside the sanctuary of Barrhaven United Church on Friday night March 14. A series of chords from the keyboard sounded like the opening of a hymn. Then a catchy riff. That signalled the rest of the Retrosonics to bring in their parts.

‘Walk of Life,” a song written by Mark Knopfler, and recorded by his band Dire Straits, kicked off the first of a series of concerts for the Multifaith Housing Initiative’s latest development at LeBreton Flats. 

Knopfler’s song is about a busker playing hits from the 1950s in the subway.  He was cruising through life, realizing the good with the bad. For many, the walk of life is not very pleasant with mostly negative results, especially when you are unhoused.

The Barrhaven United Church committee took on the challenge with this concert series to fundraise for Odenak at LeBreton Flats, MHI's newest affordable housing development. The first concert was designed to be simple: featuring The Retrosonics, a local band with a dedicated following, performing one set of classic rock and another of Celtic music. The evening also included a presentation highlighting the importance and necessity of these fundraising concerts.  

Sahada Alolo from MHI remarked, “what a joy it was to see people having fun on a Friday night!” And what fun they had. The last song was “The Parting Glass ,“ a very old Scottish tune that is also popular in Ireland. The song offers guests a tribute to friendship and wishes for all safe travels. When the house lights were turned on, and a successful event was over, it was time for all to go home and think about what a great evening it was.

Dancing, singing and making the first concert of Odenak a success. Just over $5,000 was raised. Money that will enable more people to enjoy their “Walk of Life.”

We want to take a moment to update our community on the status of The Anchor project. Following the recent priority change by the Julian of Norwich Parish (GHC), in which they carefully assessed the feasibility of moving forward with this initiative. They have made the difficult decision not to proceed with The Anchor as originally planned. Given the current unstable environment, we regretfully agree with and support their decision.

One of the primary challenges this project faced was securing the necessary funding to bring The Anchor to life. Despite dedicated efforts, the financial landscape has proven difficult, and obtaining the required support has not been possible at this time.

While this news may come as a disappointment, we remain committed to our mission of creating safe and supportive housing. Looking ahead, we see potential opportunities to utilize the architectural plans of The Anchor in a different way—through the redevelopment and densification of existing older housing communities that are part of the amalgamation. This approach allows us to continue addressing the critical need for housing while working within a more viable framework.

We deeply appreciate the dedication and support of everyone who has been involved in this journey. Especially the Anglican Diocese and the Julian of Norwich Parish. Though this particular project will not move forward, our commitment to providing housing solutions remains strong. We will continue to explore new opportunities and keep you updated as we move ahead.

Thank you for your ongoing support.

MHI is extremely pleased to have the support of the Eastern Ontario Outaouais Regional Council (EOORC) through the United We Dream fundraising campaign. United We Dream asks EOORC congregations to help raise funds for MHI’s Dream LeBreton Capital Campaign with a fundraising target of $150,000. To date, United We Dream has already raised over 50% of this goal and has proven success in past campaigns in support of MHI communities.* 

When speaking about why EOORC continues to support MHI's efforts to build more affordable housing in our community, and to encourage each pastoral charge to participate in this campaign, Reverend Éric Hébert-Daly, Executive Minister for East Central Ontario, Eastern Ontario Outaouais and Nakonha:ka regional councils says:   

​“From its deepest core, the United Church of Canada has understood the importance of valuing all of God’s creation and each creature as a key component of its ministry. Housing is one way we demonstrate that value and respect. Each community of faith in our region has an opportunity to make our commitment to respect and dignity tangible and real through their fundraising efforts. We respond to the world through the lens of our faith. Our world is speaking loudly to us in our current context. Let us respond with passion and enthusiasm.”  

All donations made to United We Dream are in service of MHI’s newest affordable housing development, Dream LeBreton Flats, also known as Odenak or “community” in Algonquin, and the dedication of 30 affordable units to Indigenous households. Completion of Odenak is planned for December 2027 and all amounts raised, large or small, are helping to provide safe, supportive, and permanent homes for community members in need. 

Interested in supporting EOORC and United We Dream?  
EOORC’s pastoral charges are listed in MHI’s United We Dream Directory. You can select your team from the list and head directly to their page to make a secure donation: www.multifaithhousing.ca/united-we-dream

Thank You to the United Churches that have and continue to support this project:  

• United Church of Canada Foundation  
• Anonymous donor from Glebe-St. James United Church  
• Bells Corners United Church  
• Emmanuel United Church  
• Barrhaven United Church  
• Woodroffe United Church  
• Glen Cairn United Church Women  
• Smiths Falls Trinity United Church  
• Rideau Park United Church  
• Manotick United Church  

Raising Funds and Awareness 
Each Pastoral Charge is encouraged to support United We Dream in whichever manner they wish. Some options include hosting an United We Dream Sunday Service, inviting MHI staff to present to their congregations about Odenak, and planning their own fundraising events. Don’t hesitate to let MHI and the EOORC community know what your pastoral charge is doing to contribute to the 30 units of affordable Indigenous housing at Odenak. If you need any additional content or resources, you can reach out to MHI at any time.  

Two Upcoming Events in Support of United We Dream:  
March 14 – Barrhaven United Church Concert (part of an ongoing series)  
April 11 – Knox United Church Concert – more details to come HERE 

If your Pastoral Charge would like to schedule an MHI Staff member to come and speak to your congregation about Odenak, please contact: 
Sheldon Leong – Director of Fund Development 
[email protected] / 613 686 1825 x 312  

Ella Matheson – Fund Development Coordinator  
[email protected] / 613 686 1825 

*When the United Church Presbytery set a fundraising goal of $100,000 for MHI’s The Haven, their contributions totaled $117,000, and when EOORC set a goal of $150K for Veterans’ House: the Andy Carswell Building –United We Stand Capital Campaign, they raised over $350,000 (including matching funds from Commissionaires Ottawa).

We’re excited to invite you to MHI’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Sunday, April 27, 2025.

As one of MHI’s main events—alongside Tulipathon and National Housing Day—the AGM is more than just a meeting; it’s a celebration of our shared commitment to safe and inclusive affordable housing.

Whether you’re a longtime member or new to MHI, the AGM is a great opportunity to reflect on our achievements from 2024 and connect with both new and familiar faces. Attendees will hear updates from MHI’s Executive Director, Suzanne Le, meet our newly appointed President, Ishbel Solvason, and get to know our amalgamated staff. Plus, you’ll receive a copy of the 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the year’s accomplishments and community impact. 

This year, we are honored to host the AGM at Rideau Park United Church, continuing our tradition of gathering in spaces that reflect the diverse faith backgrounds of our membership.

Join us on April 27, 2025, as we celebrate our progress, shape our future, and renew our commitment to housing equity.

For more information, including date, time and other supporting documentation, visit our Annual General Meeting webpage.

The CRA has confirmed that they will extend the deadline for donors to claim eligible gifts on their 2024 personal income tax return to February 28, 2025. Inspired by this news, we are pleased to announce that we are extending MHI’s deadline for our donation match opportunity. From now until February 28, 2025, each new monthly donor who signs up to invest in our Dream LeBreton project for a minimum of $15 per month for at least 12 months, will trigger a one-time $100 contribution from the Wesley M. Nicol Foundation.

​The Dream LeBreton project, also known as Odenak or “community” in Algonquin, will help address the growing homelessness and affordable housing crisis in Ottawa. Construction is already underway on the 608-unit Odenak project, in which MHI will own and operate 133 affordable units. We are dedicating 30 of these units to Indigenous households.

Join our community of monthly donors by February 28, 2025, and you will help trigger an additional $100 to help low-income families and individuals achieve a secure place they can call home, providing the vital conditions that will enable them to succeed and thrive.

We need your help to reach our goal of 150 new monthly donors. Please consider signing on to become a monthly donor now

We are thrilled to highlight our new partnership with Meridian Credit Union!  
 
This fall, Meridian Barrhaven Branch Manager, Art Kirkwood reached out to our Director of Fund Development, Sheldon Leong to explore opportunities for collaboration. Meridian Credit Union is passionate about community support and recognized MHI as a potential partner through our dedication to providing safe, permanent, and affordable housing to individuals experiencing homelessness. Art spoke to Sheldon about their company’s aim to make a meaningful charitable impact and the best ways for Meridian to help to uplift the MHI community.
 
Throughout the month of December, Meridian ran a community support drive to benefit residents of The Haven. Thanks to the generosity of Meridian Credit Union clients, Art and his colleagues came to personally deliver priority non-perishable food and personal care items to The Haven during the holiday season. Art, and fellow Meridian staff members Gustavo and Robin, also helped to spread a little holiday cheer as they joined us at our Haven Christmas celebration.
 
In addition to providing this welcome support to families and individuals at The Haven, Art also applied for Meridian’s Good Neighbour Program on behalf of MHI. The Good Neighbour Program enables local Meridian teams to address issues experienced by individuals facing economic barriers. Through this program, MHI received $1350 from Meridian to go toward our Dream LeBreton Flats Capital Campaign.
 
We are fortunate to have Meridian’s support for our current residents, as well as their support to help house future residents through our capital campaign.  Says Art "Meridian is proud to partner with the Multifaith Housing Initiative to support The Haven tenants. Through our Good Neighbours Program, our participation in the Dream LeBreton Flats Capital Campaign further underscores our commitment to creating sustainable and inclusive housing solutions. These initiatives are integral to our Meridian For Good strategy, dedicated to fostering positive change and building stronger communities."
 
MHI extends a heartfelt thank you to Meridian Credit Union, and to Barrhaven Branch Manager Art Kirkwood, for this generosity and advocacy. We are greatly looking forward to more opportunities to collaborate in the future. May we continue to use our individual strengths to come together to best support our neighbours. 

From left to right: Meridian District Vice President Mark Ostland, MHI Director of Fund Development Sheldon Leong, and Meridian Barrhaven Branch Manager Art Kirkwood. 

Seeds of Hope- Beauty and Abundance at Multifaith Housing, The Haven

Barrhaven United Church is pleased to share the good news of the Grant we received from the United Church Foundation, Seeds of Hope Program for the summer of 2025. Dr. Sahada Alolo was very helpful in submitting our application as she knows The Haven and its residents well. This Grant will enable us to hire an Agricultural Student to lead in the maintenance and upkeep of the resident’s areas at The Haven. Residents and volunteers will work together to integrate native plants, pollinator friendly plants and where possible vegetables. 

As part of our commitment we are looking for financial donations to assist us in raising 50% of the Grant money. To this end we are asking other faith communities or individuals if they would like to make a donation, large or small, to assist in raising $1,000 to $1,500. We have also reached out to other faith groups in the Barrhaven area and to local businesses.

If you are able to assist, please make your donation by cheque to Barrhaven United Church with a memo notation: Seeds of Hope.    This could be mailed to:  Barrhaven United Church, 3013 Jockvale Rd, Nepean, ON K2J 4E4 or e-transfer to BUCenvelope.sec@gmailcom
With thanks for your support

National Housing Day is just around the corner, and we couldn’t be more excited to invite you to one of Multifaith Housing Initiative’s (MHI) most important annual events. Scheduled for Sunday, November 24th, from 3 to 5 PM, this celebration reminds of the essential role that housing plays as a human right and our shared responsibility to ensure affordable housing for all.

As one of the three major annual events organized by MHI, alongside Tulipathon in May and the Annual General Meeting in April, National Housing Day is a time for advocacy, reflection on how far we have come, and action on how much more we need to do. Whether you are a long-term supporter of MHI or someone new to our cause, this is your opportunity to engage with others who share your passion for affordable housing and social justice.

Marimba Players will be gracing us with performances, and we will learn about MHI's latest projects from Executive Director, Suzanne Le. Because this is an interfaith prayer celebration, we will hear from Indigenous Grandmother Irene Compton (cofounder of Minwaashin Lodge) and an opening prayer from Rabbi Idan Scher, Congregation Machzikei Hadas. Our keynote speakers are Rabbi Blum and Dr. Aisha Sherazi. 

We’ll celebrate the progress we’ve made, address the challenges that remain, and explore new ways to support those in need. The goal is simple: to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people who lack affordable housing.

Join us at the Sir John A. Macdonald Building in Ottawa on November 24th and be a part of this special day of hope, solidarity, and action. Together, we can continue advocating for policies and solutions that bring us closer to achieving affordable housing for everyone.

Learn more at www.multifaithhousing.ca/national-housing-day and mark your calendars now!

Event Details:
Date: Sunday, November 24th, 2024
Time: 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location: Sir John A. Macdonald Building, 144 Wellington St, Ottawa, ON K1P 5B9

​Please note that this is a federal government building. You will be required by security to show your personal identification and to go through a metal detector to enter the event. Please give yourself plenty of time to go through security. 

On a rainy Wednesday evening, as the crisp air of autumn began to settle over the city, something historic was unfolding. The gentle patter of rain mirrored the quiet anticipation as MHI’s membership gathered, their collective purpose focused on a motion that promised transformation—the motion to amalgamate with Gloucester Housing Corporation (GHC).

Much like the changing of seasons, this motion represented a shift, a natural evolution for Multifaith Housing Initiative. And as the leaves outside began to turn from vibrant green to shades of amber and crimson, a similar change was taking root within our organization. The conversation wasn’t just about merging entities or formalities—it was about embracing growth, unity, and the future.

Autumn has always been a season of transition. It murmurs of both nostalgia and new beginnings, as we let go of the long days of summer and prepare for the quiet, reflective months ahead. On this particular night, the rain felt symbolic, washing away old boundaries and paving the way for something greater.

Inside the room, our members came together, representing different faiths, backgrounds, and walks of life. Each person’s commitment to affordable housing stood as the foundation of our shared values, yet this decision marked a new chapter in our journey. Unanimously, they voted in favor of amalgamation, an action that solidified MHI's readiness to meet the growing challenges of housing in our community.

For months, we had deliberated on what this change would mean—not just for MHI but for those we serve. Would amalgamation strengthen our combined organization? Would it allow us to provide even more stability for those in need of affordable housing? The answer, resoundingly, was yes.

Much like autumn, where the earth sheds its old skin to prepare for rebirth, MHI’s decision to amalgamate is not an end but a renewal. It is a strategic move that will fortify our capacity to fulfill our mission, enabling us to work more cohesively within our combined organization under one MHI umbrella. With greater unity, comes greater strength.
As the rain fell steadily outside, it was impossible not to feel the weight of the moment—a feeling of hope rising above the downpour. The unanimity of the vote reflected the shared understanding that in order to address the pressing housing crisis, we must adapt and evolve, just as the seasons do.

The weeks ahead will be filled with planning and continued collaboration, just as autumn slowly turns toward winter. But, like the sturdy trees that anchor us through seasonal shifts, MHI stands resilient and ready. The unanimous approval of this motion is evidence to the trust and vision of our MHI family —a commitment to ensuring that everyone, regardless of their background, has access to safe and affordable housing.

This moment marks not just a new chapter for MHI and GHC but a new beginning for all who believe in our mission. As autumn continues to unfold, bringing with it both change and beauty, we move forward with confidence, knowing that together, we are stronger. Together, we can weather any storm, much like that rainy Wednesday night when the seeds of transformation were sown.

The amalgamation of Gloucester Housing Corporation (GHC) with Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) marks an exciting new chapter for both organizations. This strategic partnership is set to enhance the services and support provided to tenants while strengthening the capacity to meet the growing housing needs in our community. Here are five key benefits of this amalgamation:

1. Enhanced Programming Schedule
By joining forces with MHI, GHC tenants will gain access to a broader and more diverse range of programming. MHI has a well-established schedule of events and activities designed to foster community engagement, personal development, and social interaction. Whether it's educational workshops, cultural celebrations, or recreational activities, the expanded programming will offer something for everyone. This integration ensures that all tenants will benefit from a rich array of opportunities.

2. Strengthened Maintenance Team
One of the significant advantages of the amalgamation is the pooling of resources, particularly when it comes to maintenance services. GHC’s experienced and dedicated maintenance team will now oversee the upkeep of MHI properties, ensuring that buildings are well-maintained, and repairs are handled promptly. This not only improves the living conditions for tenants but also enhances the long-term sustainability of our combined properties.

3. Stronger Community Connections
Community is at the heart of what MHI stands for with its membership of over 70+ faith-based groups and communities. This amalgamation will bring GHC tenants into a larger, more vibrant community network made up of volunteers, donors, community partners, and other supporters. MHI's dedication to building inclusive, supportive communities will open new opportunities for GHC tenants to connect with neighbors, take part in community events, and engage in meaningful activities.

4. Professional Housing Managers
MHI tenants will now benefit from the professional in-house expertise of GHC ’s housing management team. These managers bring a wealth of experience in overseeing affordable housing projects and ensuring that tenants’ needs are met efficiently and compassionately. The housing managers are dedicated to creating safe, secure, and welcoming environments where tenants can thrive. Their role will be crucial in addressing any challenges that arise and in ensuring that all tenants feel supported in their housing journey.

5. Diverse Funding Structure
MHI’s diverse funding structure is another key advantage of this amalgamation. With access to a broader range of funding sources, including donations from various faith communities, government grants, and other fundraising initiatives, MHI can ensure the long-term financial sustainability of the housing communities. This diverse funding base allows for greater flexibility in addressing the needs of tenants and developing future affordable housing communities. It also means that all properties in the amalgamated MHI will be better positioned to weather economic fluctuations and continue providing affordable housing for those in need.

Conclusion
The amalgamation of GHC with MHI is a positive and forward-looking step that brings numerous benefits to both organizations and, most importantly, to the tenants of both organizations. From enhanced programming and maintenance services to stronger community ties and a more robust funding structure, this partnership will undoubtedly lead to improved quality of life for tenants and a stronger, more resilient housing community.

We are pleased to sing the praises of the Property Maintenance Team (PMT). ​These are the volunteers who clean and empty out homes, perform minor repairs, and PAINT! They paint anything from apartment units, to community areas, stairwells, parking lot lines, picnic tables and more. They are volunteers who help LSM Services - which manages properties on behalf of MHI and Veterans’ House Canada (VHC).

Mostly retired, they used to work as physiotherapists, auto mechanics, social workers…. Now they roll up their sleeves and get dirt-smudged and a bit paint-splattered to make MHI homes bright and clean. And they enjoy it. They like seeing instant - or at least steady - improvement. They feel good about participating in MHI’s housing efforts. And they love being together. The camaraderie is immediately noticeable. Having started before 6:30 am at an apartment in Blake House, by 8:30 they are ready for a coffee break and pull together all the fixings - their own improvised stools, a coffeemaker, cups, coffee and homemade muffins. There are smiles, stories and laughter.

They joined PMT at the urging of friends in faith groups, neighbours, other team members … now they’re a little family unto their own. Barb is in her 14th year; Team Leader Danielle, their organizer and scheduler, is in her 15th. She started as a board director, and because they also act as liaisons to committees, she chose the PMT. She appreciates “the tangible results, specific, if arduous tasks, satisfaction with good work and seeing a unit transformed into a good home for someone.” She inveigled her friend Lorraine to join, who recalls: “One day before a French oral exam I asked Danielle if we could spend some time together speaking French…. She said « oui », do you want to join me painting an apartment tomorrow? The rest is history!”
 
It’s a busy time for them. Their current job is a big one, which has required trips to the Habitat for Humanity ReStore, lots of floor and wall cleaning, and now painting and window-cleaning. The external doors have just had a new coat. Louise is sitting on a hallway floor refreshing floorboards and Barb is up a ladder in the bedroom painting window trim. A medicine cabinet needs moving. Bob will be on it. He “loves hands-on work”. Tomorrow Danielle will be off to The Haven regarding a paint project. A unit at the Andy Carswell Building is next up for the team. Last year, between MHI and VHC they performed an estimated 900 hours of volunteer service, including preparing Kent House for sale.

MHI Executive Director, Suzanne Le knows how much PMT contributes to the non-profit organization. She says, “I am delighted to help shine a spotlight on the invaluable work of this group. They do a great job helping us refresh our units before new tenants move in and performing other jobs which, taken together, save MHI a considerable amount of money. We are then able to reinvest these savings in our tenant subsidies and community development programs. We can't thank them enough.”

The members also feel the appreciation of some of the tenants, who notice their
spruced-up community areas and thank them.

If you have a knack for repairs and painting, have some spare time and want to contribute to affordable housing, you may want to consider joining this team. MHI is always looking for new volunteers. To find out more about how to join PMT or other teams, please visit www.multifaithhousing.ca/volunteer.

Team members: Danielle Dugas, Lorraine England, Fraser MacIsaac, Barbara Smith, Louise Patry, Geoff Joustra, Christopher Duschenes, Fraser MacIsaac and Bob Proper.

Just down the street from the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa’s office on Bronson Avenue in Ottawa, and beside Ādisōke, the new Ottawa Public Library that’s currently being constructed, two apartment towers will soon break ground. Once built, Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) will own and operate 133 units, ranging from 1-3 bedrooms. A total of 603 units will be built, in partnership with Dream Unlimited, one of Canada’s leading real estate companies based in Toronto.

Bishop Shane Parker has played a leadership role in supporting the Dream LeBreton project, and enabled a $75,000 donation made earlier this year by the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa, in support of MHI’s $1.6M capital campaign that will dedicate 30 units of the 133 to Indigenous families, as part of the church’s ongoing commitment to both reconciliation and affordable housing.

True to the multifaith spirit of MHI and given our current housing crisis, Bishop Shane believes that this new development is something all faith groups can get behind. Leading by example, he is encouraging other faith leaders and groups to think about how they can support this important development. Bishop Shane said “I believe there is considerable interest in collaborating to show support for the project, with the hope of raising awareness and donations, and, very importantly, to demonstrate solidarity and friendship among the faith communities in Ottawa as we share in making the world a better place.

Over 22 years ago, faith leaders representing multiple religions in Ottawa came together and helped realized a dream. MHI was created to tackle the issue of homelessness in our city and today, 134 families have a safe, affordable and permanent home. Sadly, two decades later, affordable housing remains a dream for many living our nation’s capital but it doesn’t have to be. Inspired by the generosity and commitment of the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa, we are once again calling on our members and the Ottawa community at-large to help realize another dream.

Learn more about MHI's Dream at LeBreton Flats here.

Tulipathon is held each year at Dow's Lake by MHI, and is one of the signature fundraising events for the organization, totaling over $100,00 each year for tenant subsidies. What is so amazing are the different groups, organizations, families, and individuals that come together each year, united in their efforts, to raise money for affordable housing for those who need it most. The history of the Tulipathon is a very personal story for the Tareen family which started more than 25 years ago.

My father, the late Dr. Farook Tareen, wanted to create a sustainable way to raise awareness and funds for the various charities that he supported. He was also a very physically active person, who played tennis, cross country skied, biked, and walked. He wanted to blend his two passions of exercise and giving back to his community. With a few close friends, he started the Tulipathon walk, even designing the logo.

The first ever walk could not have gone any worse!  It was a cold, rainy spring day. The wind was relentless, blowing hats of heads, and forcing people to lean into the breeze. The rain was frigid! Not only that, but Dr. Tareen was only able to get a handful of his closest friends to show up, and he did not raise very much money. Most of the donation that year was from his own pocket.  

But he did not give up!  He kept running the event, pledging to walk the Ottawa Canal around Dow's Lake each year to raise more awareness and more money. His close friends were steadfast, and walked with him every year, and each year, the number of participants grew.  Many of these friends are still avid Tulipathon supporters!   

Today, Tulipathon has hundreds of participants supported by so many wonderful people of various faith, cultures, and backgrounds. The Tulipathon Walkathon Campaign was donated by Dr. Tareen to MHI, one of his favourite charities. MHI is doing a fabulous job to continue this wonderful legacy and has taken it to the next level!  

The Tareen family is honoured to be a part of the MHI, and this vibrant, positive, amazing group of people. We are so happy and impressed to see what they have done with the Tulipathon Walkathon.  Dr. Tareen would be so proud of the legacy that he left behind!

With sincere thanks,
Nazira Tareen, wife of the late Dr. Tareen, 
Omar Tareen, son of Dr. Farook & Nazira Tareen,
Sam and India Tareen, grandchildren of ​Dr. Farook & Nazira Tareen.

Happy Spring! I am the Cantor at Kehillat Beth Israel Congregation (“KBI”), Ottawa’s largest Jewish congregation. My main roles include leading the congregation in our prayer services, teaching community members how to lead services and chant our holy texts (a specialized set of skills), directing our adult and youth choirs, teaching prayer to grades K-7 in our supplementary school, teaching students for their B’nei Mitzvah (rites of passage from childhood to Jewish “adulthood” at age 13), and represent the Jewish faith at multicultural and multifaith events around Ottawa. In addition to musical roles, I also provide pastoral care to those in need, visit the sick and home-bound, write and give sermons, organize holiday programming, and engage the congregation in charitable work to make the world a better place (in Hebrew: “Tikkun Olam – repair of the world”). 
 
In the Jewish faith, every prayer service section ends with a Prayer for Peace: “Oseh SHALOM bim-romav, Hu ya-aseh SHALOM aleinu v’al kol yosh’vei teivel – May the One Who grants peace in the Universe, bring peace to us and to all who dwell on earth”, and everyone says, “Amen”. 
 
“Amen” in Hebrew means “I have faith in this; I believe in this.” But beyond just reading the words in our prayerbooks, I believe in taking action, partnering with whatever higher power we each believe in, coming together no matter our faith, our religion, our culture, our peoplehood, to bring peace and goodness into the world. 
 
That’s why I’m proudly here as a new MHI patron. When my former Rabbi colleague left Ottawa and vacated his role as an MHI patron, I was approached about becoming a patron myself, to continue and grow the connection between KBI and MHI. To this, I proclaimed “Amen!” because I have faith in MHI. I believe in MHI. 
 
As you know, MHI exists as a grassroots program to build affordable housing that helps fix Ottawa’s housing crisis and gets at-risk people into safe, secure, affordable homes. In its earlier years, MHI worked diligently with the greater Ottawa community to increase awareness of the crisis, and to set the groundwork of adding and improving government legislature that would pave the way for today’s work: building and housing our communities for the future. MHI operates three affordable housing sites in Ottawa: The Haven, Somerset Gardens, and Blake House; and two more projects are in the works: Dream LeBreton, and The Anchor. 
 
Who does this work? In large part, MHI’s constituent communities do, each represented and led by its Patron. Patrons are here to support MHI’s goals; promote the organization within our faith community; share with MHI’s staff and board of directors important information and advice concerning our faith group; and speak publicly in support of MHI.  
 
Recently, I delivered a sermon during a Sabbath-morning service (our largest weekly gathering). The weekly Torah (Bible) portion spoke to the moral imperative for every member of the Jewish People to give freewill donations for the community’s housing needs. I took the opportunity to relate the lesson back to MHI, and my hopes (no, expectations!) for my community’s support of the organization. I told my community how I wanted them to fulfill that ethical obligation: 
 
“On May 26th, MHI will host its most important annual awareness-raiser and fundraiser, Tulipathon. Together with longtime MHI Board member and longtime KBI member Barbara Levine, and with Sasha Kathron, our Youth Director, I will shortly be launching the 2024, KBI Tulipathon Team. Our Gesher and USY youth groups will soon meet several times to learn about the housing crisis, to hear from a teen whose family-life was improved immeasurably by gaining tenancy in an MHI property, and to prepare a teen-led fundraiser for MHI. I will take the opportunity now to encourage everyone to donate freely and generously when the kids reach out, to help build safe, affordable homes in Ottawa for those in need.” 
 
As clergy at my synagogue, one of my most important responsibilities is to bring people together to work on making the world a better place. What more fitting opportunity I have than to warmly encourage you all to attend MHI’s Annual General Meeting, which will take place on Sunday, April 21st at The Hall of Peace at the Ottawa Muslim Association. 
 
It's an honour to be counted among my esteemed colleagues and friends across our faiths as a Patron of MHI, and I look forward to continuing the good, important, and necessary work that we all do together. 

​No doubt most people reading this post have a safe, affordable home to sleep in at night but unfortunately that is not the reality for many people across the city. There are hundreds of Ottawans who spend their nights in shelters, in encampments, and on the street. And then there are thousands more who may have a roof over their heads but might not have eaten dinner or paid their hydro bill because their housing is simply not affordable. With more than 10,000 households on the centralized waiting list for housing in Ottawa, the demand for a safe and affordable place to live in this city far outpaces available homes and the construction of new affordable homes.
​
As a Rental Officer with Centretown Citizens Ottawa Corporation (CCOC), another affordable housing provider in Ottawa, every day I see the impact that an affordable home has on someone’s life. Whether it’s a single mother and her children fleeing an abusive relationship or a refugee family settling in Canada after escaping a war, securing affordable housing can have a huge impact. Affordable rent for someone could mean they can return to school to upgrade their skills and get a better job, which might eventually lead to them no longer needing subsidized housing. It can be very rewarding to offer someone an apartment through the centralized waiting list and equally rewarding to watch a long-time tenant move out because they’ve been able to buy their first house.

I interact with a diverse tenant population every day, from new Canadians to families to people living with HIV/AIDS and everyone in between. A mixed tenant population is what creates a rich community but it’s also not without its challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic has been difficult for many people and we’ve seen firsthand the impact it has had on our tenants’ lives. Many tenants lost their jobs or had to pivot to online learning at home, while others found the pandemic challenging for their mental health. We also saw delays in construction projects with the pandemic, which means new tenants are waiting even longer before they can move in to their new homes.
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Studies have also shown that individuals with stable, affordable housing tend to have better health outcomes, both mentally and physically, but housing is only one piece of the puzzle. We also need proper health care, affordable education, fare wages, and better social supports. MHI’s upcoming affordable housing project, Dream at LeBreton Flats, will see the addition of 601 new rental units in Ottawa, with 41% of the units earmarked as affordable housing. These new affordable rental units will play a role in helping to house individuals and families in Ottawa who may have been waiting for many years for an affordable place to live or who may have been living in the shelter system for some time. With  more purpose-built affordable rental units created in the future, one day we will no longer need to dream about ending homelessness in Ottawa.

Before David Hill became an Ottawa City Councillor, he was a volunteer at MHI. Mr. Hill first became involved with MHI through the Barrhaven United Church where he is a congregation member. At that time, in 2016, MHI was in the planning phase for The Haven and The United Church was garnering support for the new housing initiative. MHI invited folks from its membership to attend an open house outlining the vision for The Haven. 

After attending the open house, Mr. Hill became a volunteer and joined the MHI community engagement committee as a local community member, and board member of the Barrhaven United Church. He quickly became the committee chair and was enthusiastic to showcase events that represent the diverse faith groups of Barrhaven, including local Christian Churches, the South Nepean Muslim Centre, and the Ottawa Torah Centre. In addition, the local faith-led community rallied around the new residents, keen to help these vulnerable families navigate the challenges that poverty can impart.  

When MHI began embarking on a Veterans’ first housing model, Mr. Hill, a veteran himself., became very interested. He engaged his own network and assisted with fundraising initiatives to help make Veterans’ House Canada a reality. We all know how that story turned out: the Andy Carswell Building became Canada’s first supportive housing site specifically for veterans and Veterans’ House Canada (VHC) gained its own charitable status with a mission to provide supportive housing to veterans across Canada. 
Mr. Hill learned about city investments and processes through his involvement with MHI. Now as City Councillor, Mr. Hill maintains a direct connection to the community he represents through volunteering with MHI as well as the Barrhaven Community Association. 

It is clear his vision for affordable housing in Ottawa is shaped by his community involvement. In his own words, he notes that affordable housing is an important component in the overall health of Ottawa’s ecosystem: “We need to grow our economy so that people have access to good paying jobs.  We need to improve our transportation and public transit systems so that people can get to the places they need to go efficiently.  We need to improve the overall affordability of the city so that a market rate / middle class lifestyle is achievable for as many people as possible.  We need to improve public safety so that people of all backgrounds, faith groups, cultures, skin colours, sexual orientations, and abilities feel safe in their neighbourhood.  We need to steward our environment so that our next generations of Ottawans have a safe and resilient community that can absorb extreme weather events, appropriately manage our waste and keep our water systems clean.  Low-income housing plays a complementary role in all of this and I will continue to champion the MHI model because I believe in its foundational community sponsorship concept and I appreciate very much the outstanding and disproportionate impacts that they have in Ottawa.” 

Over the years Mr. Hill (and his family!) has participated in every holiday event since The Haven opened. He regularly attends The Haven celebrations of Seder, Eid, and Ramadan, and is always asking how he can help. Mr. Hill is humble about his involvement with MHI; as a volunteer, a fundraiser, and even his reoccurring acting role in The Haven’s annual Christmas play. Simply put, he puts his faith in action.

I had originally written another address for this afternoon. One that talked more about our theme - the Joy of Dreaming Big. It talked about our small grassroots, our growth, and pointed out the ongoing need for us to continue to do our work of creating housing, and our role in helping to bring the housing crisis to an end. And if you want to hear that speech – I look forward to seeing you at our AGM in April.
 
Because, like all of you, I have been watching the news. And the very distressing events that we see unfolding in front of us - every day. And like you, I experience that same level of powerlessness in the face of great tragedy. Therefore, I decided to shelve my original address, so I could speak to you more from the heart.
 
Many of you will know that when I started with MHI back in January 2013, I had no experience in the housing industry. My background is in comparative religion. It is where I learned that people of the world’s faiths have so much more in common, in every single way, than they have differences.

My master’s degree is in conflict studies. And my thesis was on genocide. This was where I learned what tools and methods could be used and implemented in a very process driven way, to create absolute suffering. I don’t think it will come as a shock to you when I say that one of the most common tools used to divide humankind throughout the history, Is religion. (Note I say Tool and not cause).

Thus, my great attraction to MHI was the multifaith aspect of the charity. Here was an organization that took the markers along the road to conflict, division, and violence, and in our own small and local way – using religion as its tool, and housing as its method, walked those paths in reverse. MHI brings people together. Our religious differences do not divide us. They enrich us.

I want to thank you all for coming here today. I knew you would. You will note we are in a different location than originally planned, and you might be surprised to learn that this is the National Housing Day Interfaith Service that almost didn’t happen.

The security people at City Hall saw the risk of opening this weekend as too high. Today’s gathering was rescued by strong interventions of Councillors David Hill, Matt Lulloff and Mayor Sutcliff. It is thanks to them that we are here at all. And we are very grateful to them for believing in the importance of this gathering, and responding so rapidly to our SOS.

​Now, I recognize that for some of you, sitting in this room may feel hard. But maybe, this is exactly where you need to be. Because in my mind’s eye, of all the years we have held these interfaith services – this is the most important one. In this room. Here. Together, we stand as an example of what community should look like. Because we all belong. No matter what faith tradition you find home in, we are all part of the same human family.

We don’t find division in diversity. We are enriched by it. We are enriched because of it. And because of who we are – not despite it - we have been gifted with the ability to serve the community in the most meaningful of ways.

We provide those most at risk, most in need of our help, with a home. We give them a safe place to live, and a welcoming community in which to grow and thrive. A place where they are welcomed and valued. Where diversity is not just respected, but honoured. 

​And we live those values not just in our housing communities, but in every other aspect of MHI: in our committees, our volunteer groups, our staff, our board, our Patrons – and in you. We are the Multifaith Housing Initiative. Let us be an example. Let us shine bright so that others can see us through the darkness. The world needs more MHI. So let’s give it to them. Thank you for being here.

​The National Housing Day that almost didn’t happen 

MHI's interfaith National Housing Day celebration was scheduled for November 19th, 2023. The guest speakers were set, the program was printed, and the refreshments  orders were ready to go. But the event almost didn't happen.

As many of you know, the event was originally scheduled for Ottawa's City Hall in the Jean Pigott Hall where it has been hosts several times in the past. In light of the ongoing protests in downtown Ottawa, City hall staff deemed the location to be too risky late on Friday afternoon before the event was to take place on the following Sunday. 

MHI staff were in a scramble.  What could they do? Thankfully the celebration was rescued by the strong interventions of Councilors David Hill, Matt Luloff and the Mayor myself (who was scheduled to speak at the event). MHI Staff and volunteers were grateful to them for believing in the importance of this gathering, and responding so rapidly to the SOS. 

MHI staff worked with the City of Ottawa staff to pivot to a new location; The Horticultural Building at Lansdowne Park. On Sunday, staff hit the ground running and from an outsiders perspective,  no one knew any different. As they say, the show must go on. 

And it did. MHI's National Housing Day celebration was a resounding success; a room filled with Ottawa City Councilors, affordable housing influencers, MHI Patrons, donors, volunteers, and supporters.

The event kicked off with a heartfelt welcome from Rev. Fred Demaray, MHI Patron, Canadian Baptists of ON, and Nadine El-Hawary, MHI Board Member and Membership & Outreach Committee member. They recognized our political dignitaries in attendance such as,   His Worship of Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, Ottawa City Councilors Mr. David Hill, Ms. Laine Johnson, Ms. Marty Carr, Mr. Wilson Lo, Ms. Theresa Kavanagh, Ms. Chandra Pasma, as well as former City Councilor and CityShapes founder Catherine McKenney. 

Elder Albert Dumont of the Algonquin Nations welcomed those in attendance to the territory and touched on the deep need for indigenous housing. Imam Sikander Hashmi from the Kanata Muslim Association delivered an insightful prayer from the Quran. 

His Worship of Ottawa Mayor Mark Sutcliffe gave an engaging speech on the power of unity and the ability to achieve a common goal, like Multifaith Housing Initiative has done with the support of the community. The audience listened attentively as affordable housing has become a critical issue to the citizens of Ottawa. 

The keynote speaker, Carl Nicholson, Retired ED of Catholic Centre for Immigrants & an MHI Civic Patron, took the stage. He outlined a multi-level tier of challenges MHI will face with the expansive development projects such as Dream at LeBreton Flats and The Anchor. Two of MHI largest upcoming projects that will see MHI increase the number of units and families they serve by a significant amount. The attendees were dazzled by a young Violinist Firdaus El-Darymli who is a tenant of MHI's The Haven. Just Voices, a local choir, closed out the event with a rendition of Bill Wither's Lean on Me. 

Thank you to everyone who attended National Housing Day. To those who lent a hand or who simply showed up, we could not carry out our mission of affordable housing for all without you.

​Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI), along with many other groups, is working hard to increase good affordable housing in Ottawa. Over the past 21 years, MHI has grown into a small but highly effective affordable housing provider, supported by volunteers and members of many faith traditions. MHI now owns 149 units in five housing communities and aims to grow to as many as 500 units in eight communities in the next 3-5 years.

In 2009, at the urging of founding member Sister Jean Goulet, MHI began a tradition of recognizing National Housing Day with a public event. In that year, we hosted an Interfaith Prayer Service, held at St. Basil’s Catholic Church, to recognize the day. Those who attended, mostly core supporters of MHI, were deeply moved by the event. They wanted to ensure it continue each year and attract a wide audience. The decision was also made that in 2010, the prayer service would be followed by a fundraising dinner, to help with MHI’s goal to expand its housing stock. 

This first fundraising dinner was well attended, supported by donations from 11 restaurants and 4 musicians, allowing a modest ticket price of $25.00 per person. Over 200 people attended the event, and it attracted both media and political interest. Both MPP Yasir Naqvi and MP Paul Dewer helped serve during the event. Volunteers donated over 200 hours to its planning and implementation. 

In 2012, a 10th Anniversary Dinner took place, yet another very memorable event. The prayer service included a multi-faith choir led by Barbara Clark, the founding director of the Ottawa Children’s Choir. Among the musical selections were This Little Light of Mine, Hymn To Freedom, Une Colombe, Hine Ma Tov, To Young Canadians, and What Does The Lord Require of You.

The tradition of MHI hosting an event in honour of National Housing Day has continued each year since 2009. And in each year, it has remained important to highlight the need for much more affordable housing and to recognize the important contributions of members, volunteers and Patrons for MHI’s successes. But, over time, it also became clear that the work required for the fundraising dinner did not result in enough funds to justify the effort. In 2014, MHI’s National Housing Day (service and reception) became a free event open to all. 

Organizers began to develop a theme to help structure the event program, including “To Serve and Support” (2014), “Providing Haven” (2015), “A Compassionate City” (2016), “Breaking New Ground” (2017), “Reflecting on the Journey So Far” (2018), “Bolding Crossing Boundaries” (2019), and “Celebrating MHI’s Volunteers” (2021). In 2020 and 2021, on-line pre-recorded video events were prepared, in recognition of pandemic restrictions of the time. In 2022, it was agreed that the 20th Anniversary Gala should take the place of a separate National Housing Day event.  

Over the years, we have been honoured to hear from significant keynote speakers, among them: founding members Sister Jean Goulet and Sue Evans, and current Executive Director Suzanne Le, Sister Lorena Morris (Caldwell Community Housing), Dr. Lindy Samson (CHEO), Rev. David C. Kettle (former Chaplain General of the Canadian Forces), and Diane Holmes (retired City Councillor).

A program structure tried in 2018 became the preferred approach. Beginning with a formal program where MHI’s Patrons, staff and volunteers are featured in the opening welcome, prayer, keynote address, and updates about MHI, followed by an informal reception with light refreshments where members and other guests can mingle with MHI Patrons, staff and volunteers. Ottawa City Hall has become the best location, thanks to the sponsorship from various City Councillors over the years. 

MHI’s success in creating more affordable, inclusive housing communities and, in expanding awareness of the importance of such housing, depend on the many contributions of its expanding and committed community of members, Patrons, volunteers, staff and public and private sector supporters.

We look forward to seeing many of MHI’s friends and supporters on November 19th beginning at 3 pm at the City of Ottawa when we will celebrate this year’s theme: “The Joy of Dreaming Big”.