What is Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa?

With the help of local Habitat families, donors, community partners and volunteers, Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa builds affordable homes that provide a solid foundation for local families. Habitat Greater Ottawa’s homeownership program offers more than just housing; it sets families up to be successful homeowners who are invested in their homes and in their community. The benefits of owning a long-term stable Habitat home are many. They include reduced reliance on social housing and food banks, better educational, financial and employment outcomes and improved health and overall wellbeing for families. With over 55,000 Ottawa households living on low income, and with a 5-year average wait time to access social housing in our city, the need for affordable housing is only growing. Over the past three years, Habitat Greater Ottawa has transitioned from a builder of single-family homes to a developer of communities. By increasing the number of homes we build, we can provide more families with the opportunity to thrive. Habitat Greater Ottawa does not provide free homes — the families who partner with us invest directly in their home’s equity and commit volunteer hours to our organization. Families purchase their home at fair market value with no down payment and pay an affordable mortgage. Families who partner with Habitat Greater Ottawa understand that a home is a long-term commitment and an investment.