Ottawa Group Helping Newcomers Needs Urgent Home to Continue Services

Suzi Shore Sauvé, the founder of House to Home Ottawa (H2H), is in urgent need of a new location for her organization, which supports newcomers to Canada in furnishing their homes. Currently operating out of a cramped space at Westgate Shopping Centre, H2H faces imminent closure as the mall prepares for significant redevelopment. Without a generous landlord willing to provide at least 5,000 sq. ft. of available retail, warehouse, or office space, H2H could be forced to shut down by the end of October.

H2H is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to helping immigrant and refugee families establish their homes in Canada. For a nominal fee, the group supplies essential items such as clothing, furniture, and housewares. For instance, a family of four can furnish an entire home for just $400, which includes delivery. While the Westgate location has served as a temporary home, the organization is grappling with rising expenses. With annual operational costs exceeding $300,000, H2H relies entirely on private donations, fundraising campaigns, and small fees, as it receives no government funding.

The current space, donated by RioCan, has been a crucial lifeline for approximately 500 families each year. Without H2H, these families would lose access to essential items that make a house feel like a home. Shore Sauvé emphasizes the importance of providing safety and security to newcomers, stating, “If you give people safety and security in a home, there’s a better chance that they’ll be better integrated citizens.”

Asadullah Rahimi, a manager at H2H, is a testament to the organization’s impact. A former logistics worker from Afghanistan, he and his family were clients of H2H upon their arrival in 2021. Recognizing his skills, Shore Sauvé hired him to help others in similar situations. “I was in the same situation as they are right now,” Rahimi reflects, noting the emotional challenges faced by many newcomers. His involvement represents a powerful story of giving back and community integration.

The origins of H2H can be traced back to a conversation between Shore Sauvé and her father, David Shore, shortly before his passing in 2020. After receiving a call from someone seeking assistance with furnishing a home for a family of Syrian refugees, David remarked on the importance of providing support to those in need. This inspired Suzi to create H2H, starting from her garage and expanding as demand grew.

The organization has moved locations several times, including a brief stay at a 10,000 sq. ft. warehouse provided by Brigil Construction. After that space was demolished nearly two years ago, H2H relocated to its current, much smaller site at Westgate. With the impending mall redevelopment, time is running out for Shore Sauvé and her team.

“We have about a week to decide whether we can move or if we will have to close,” she explains. The urgency is palpable as she appeals to potential landlords: “Surely, someone with an empty office building, retail store, or warehouse—and a big heart—can step up.”

The potential closure of H2H would not only deprive families of essential items like beds and warm clothing but would also hinder their ability to integrate into Canadian society. Basic necessities are crucial to helping newcomers transition from survival to belonging. Without support, the challenges for these families will only increase.

To reach out to H2H and offer assistance or space, interested parties can visit their website at h2hottawa.com. The need for a new home is immediate, and the community’s support could make a significant difference in the lives of many newcomers.