Care Centre Ottawa is an emergency food bank on the front lines of a growing crisis. As one of 71 member agencies in the Ottawa Food Bank network, they’ve seen firsthand how food insecurity in our city is spiralling. What started as a small effort helping 27 families per month has transformed into a lifeline for over 19,000 families each year.
“We describe ourselves as the land in between,” says Lisa Fabian, Executive Director of Care Centre Ottawa. “We’re here for people who find themselves stuck between where they are and where they want to be. The cost of living is outpacing income levels, and people are turning to us for more than just food—they’re seeking dignity, support, and a sense of community.”
At Care Centre Ottawa, the focus is on dignity and choice. Their full-choice marketplace allows guests to select the food they need, while the Care Café provides a welcoming space where people can connect, rest, and feel part of a community.
In addition to addressing immediate hunger, Care Centre offers wrap-around supports to help families navigate their broader challenges, whether that means accessing resources for housing, employment, or other social services. As the crisis deepens, these services have become essential not only for addressing hunger but also for providing much-needed emotional support.
Hanan Al’Helwa first got involved with Care Centre Ottawa in 2017 as a volunteer. Driven by a desire to help others and make a difference, she dedicated her time to supporting the centre’s efforts in addressing food insecurity. After three years of volunteering and witnessing the growing need in the community, Hanan transitioned into a full-time role. “We see so many people working full-time, doing everything they can, but still needing help. They come here because they can’t make ends meet—not just for food, but for the support to keep going.” Through her journey, she has gained valuable insights into the challenges faced by clients, allowing her to provide empathetic support and build meaningful relationships with those who seek help.
Care Centre Ottawa stands as more than a food bank—it’s a critical response to a growing crisis. In a city where food insecurity is reaching unprecedented levels, Care Centre continues to offer hope, dignity, and the practical support families need to move forward. But the need is only growing, and without more support, the sector is being stretched to its limits.
To learn more about Care Centre Ottawa and how you can support its mission, visit carecentreottawa.ca.
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