Ride for Refuge supports Centre 454 on Oct. 3

Cyclists set off on the ride from the parking lot of St. Aidan's Anglican Church
Archdeacon Mark Whittall leads cyclists leaving St. Aidan's on Belong Ottawa's inaugural Ride for Refuge fundraiser in 2025. PHOTO: LA Williams

Belong Ottawa’s Ride for Refuge returns for its second year on Oct. 3. And this year’s fundraiser comes at a crucial time as Centre 454 is preparing for an important transition to a new, but as yet unknown, location.

“This fall, your ride will help ensure Centre 454’s essential services continue uninterrupted during its upcoming move,” said Belong Ottawa’s executive director Shauna-Marie Young.
While our address will change, our commitment to welcoming and supporting people experiencing poverty, homelessness, isolation, and other barriers remains unwavering.”

She added that she hopes to see teams from many Anglican parishes across the diocese participating along with many others from the broader community. “As we enter this next chapter, your support will help ensure Centre 454 continues to be a place of dignity, connection, and belonging for all who rely on it,” Young said.

How to get involved and help:

On October 3, Belong Ottawa invites everyone to join the Ride for Refuge—a family‑friendly national event where communities walk, ride, roll, rally, and push together in support of people seeking hope, safety, and stability.

Last year, more than 60 participants and 10 teams helped Belong Ottawa reach their goal. This year, every dollar raised will help Centre 454 navigate this critical period of change and ensure essential programs, meals, and supports continue uninterrupted.

Here is how to support Ride for Refuge and help keep Centre 454’s 72‑year Anglican ministry strong:

  • Lead a Team:Register as a captain and rally your parish, friends, family, or colleagues.
  • Join a Team:Be part of the movement—walk, ride, run or roll and fundraise with us.
  • Donate:Support Centre 454 even if you can’t join us on Ride Day. Donate at belongottawa.ca/donate or scan the QR code in the ad below

Our Ride for Refuge page has everything you need to get started, including links to register as a captain, join a team, or donate.

Belong Ottawa Elmvale Acres:

On October 3, all you need to do is show up, enjoy the festivities, and know you are helping secure the future of Centre 454.

Join us. Support us. Ride with us. Together, we will keep community strong.”