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
- Financial anxiety index
- An hour to give
- Youth homelessness

Surviving to thriving: Heather’s story of hope
OttawaIn her early teens, Heather experienced homelessness. As she marks her retirement, United Way’s Chief People Officer reflects on her journey.
Read more
Financial Anxiety Index: More families feeling the weight of rising costs
All CommunitiesNew figures from a Léger poll, commissioned by United Way Centraide Canada (UWCC), show financial stress is spreading beyond low-income households in Ottawa and across East Ontario.
Read more
An Hour to Give: United Way East Ontario preventing youth homelessness
OttawaHost Sam Laprade sits down with a youth with lived homelessness experience, as well as experts on the issue, to talk about why prevention is so important and how United Way is making a difference.
Read more
Match the Moment: Triple your impact for youth this June
OttawaA $100,000 donation is building momentum for United Way East Ontario’s campaign to stop youth homelessness before it starts.
Read more
1/4
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