The statistics can be overwhelming. In 2023, more than 12,000 households were on the wait list for affordable housing in Ottawa. That same year, less than 10 per cent came off the list and moved into reliable long-term homes.
Trying to change those numbers is the motivation behind an ambitious fundraising effort at All Saints’ Westboro. On Saturday, Nov. 16, the church will host a music concert and reception with the aim of raising $15,000 for the Multifaith Housing Initiative (MHI) Dream LeBreton Project.
“We can all play an important role in helping ensure that everyone in Ottawa has a safe, affordable place to live,” says concert co-organizer Marcie Taylor. “We’re calling our event ‘Housing with Heart’ because we want to offer love and support to those in our community who are experiencing homelessness.”
The event, which will run from 4 pm to 6:30 pm, will feature performances from local musicians ranging from jazz to classical to contemporary music. Following the concert, attendees are invited to a special reception with curated charcuterie and conversation.
“In addition to wonderful music, delicious food and fellowship, the evening will also provide an opportunity to learn more about the work MHI is doing to create more permanent housing in our city,” says co-organizer Barb Gillie.
MHI is helping build a new affordable housing development beside the city’s new main public library at LeBreton Flats.
While MHI will ultimately operate 133 units in the new development, its capital campaign is focused on 30 units designated specifically for Indigenous households. The Anglican Diocese of Ottawa made a major donation of $75,000 for this part of the project earlier this year. Of the people experiencing homelessness in Ottawa, an estimated 32 percent are Indigenous, even though they only represent four per cent of the city’s total population.
To find out more about the Nov. 16 concert or to purchase tickets, go to allsaintswestboro.com, or call 613-725-9487.
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