Ottawa

We care about Ottawa—and we know you do, too.
Local love fuels us to tackle the greatest challenges facing our community. Together with our supporters and partners—people who love where they live and want to make a difference—we can break down barriers, improves lives, and create opportunities for individuals and families in Ottawa.
Our efforts are backed by a commitment to 100% local impact. This means funds raised locally are put to work to help those most in need, right here – in the heart of Canada’s capital.

Conquering local issues
Ottawa: Our nation’s capital
Ottawa: Our nation’s capital. A place where languages unite. A diverse and vibrant mix of neighbourhoods. A city built by innovators, artists, visionaries, dedicated public servants, volunteers and philanthropists.
But even though Ottawa is as great place to live for many people, it’s also home to thousands of individuals and families who find it difficult to get by. Some face poverty, others feel isolated, and many struggle with their mental health.
The issues affecting our community’s most vulnerable people can’t be solved in isolation. That’s why we work with individuals, agencies, companies and government leaders to harness our city’s collective strengths and address widespread social issues.
We know that together, we can change lives.

Latest news and stories
- Pride celebrations
A summer of Pride celebrations across our region
All CommunitiesTeams of United Way East Ontario staff members and volunteers had a blast showing up for our Pride communities throughout Prescott-Russell, Ottawa, Lanark County, and Renfrew County.
Read moreProactive, community-wide training is essential to stamping out hate
All CommunitiesOur Director of Community Initiatives talks about how incidents of hate erode feelings of safety and trust in our communities.
Read moreProject step supporting families as opioid use among youth climbs
OttawaWe're breaking down the latest Ontario Student Drug Use and Health Survey data and showcasing project step’s role in creating a brighter future for local youth.
Read moreOntario budget analysis 2025
All CommunitiesAs economic pressures continue to shape spending, there remains important opportunity to strengthen investments in Ontario’s public services and social safety net.
Read more
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Making a difference
United Way East Ontario
Issues like poverty, isolation and mental health don’t start or end at geographic borders—conquering them demands the force of our entire region. By bringing people and resources together from across the communities we serve, United Way East Ontario harnesses the strength needed to address systemic challenges, raise support and advocate for change.
I want to…
fuel inclusion.
Donate now
I want to…
end youth homelessness.
Donate now