Stories to Share

A group of women who love cooking and community have joined together to provide meals for seniors and people living on their own in the Chandler Mowat neighbourhood. Through a ‘Love My Hood’ grant from the City of Kitchener, and with support from House of Friendship and the Food Bank of Waterloo Region, just over […]

An innovative approach that was already underway before COVID-19 struck has proved a lifesaver for local organizations – and Lyle S. Hallman Foundation is leading the way. Typically, large grantors like Lyle S. Hallman Foundation require lengthy application processes, creating an extra burden on nonprofit organizations – both in applying for grants, and reporting back […]

The day that Nancy realized she was out of food was a tough one. “It was really embarrassing to have to ask for help,” said Nancy. “It was deeply humiliating. But I was desperate.” Back in 1969, the 17-year-old had just started her studies at the University of Waterloo. Nancy was all set for her […]

For Sabrina, living in Canada is a dream come true. Sabrina and her family came here two years ago to escape the growing violence and chaos in her home country of Argentina. “It was very dangerous,” said Sabrina. “When you arrive home from work, you have to keep an eye out. You have to get […]

Jim Furlong knows what it’s like to grow up with very little. As an orphan, Jim stayed in foster care. He often got in trouble at school, and struggled to find his place in the world. When he was 12, Jim had to make a choice. He could either provide labour on a farm, or […]

It’s taken a long time for Courtney to feel at home. As an adopted Black child growing up in a white family in Kitchener, Courtney was the target of racist taunts from his classmates. “It was always stupid things,” said Courtney. “My parents were white, and I was from the Caribbean. I didn’t fit. I […]

“I used to donate to the food bank. I never expected I would one day need to go and ask for food.” Leonard, 59, has been trying to rebuild his life for years. In 2010, Leonard was in a car accident that caused serious injuries – three broken ribs, and an injured hip. He was […]

This year, March break provided an opportunity for leadership and growth for two young women in the Courtland Shelley community. Through our Youth Leadership Program that your support makes possible, Fredlyne and Estera, both 16, had a chance to plan an entire March break camp for local children. Both girls have strong connections to House of Friendship’s […]

House of Friendship is part of Jim Erb’s DNA. Jim grew up regularly helping his aunt cut up carrots and other vegetables in the shelter kitchen. “We worked to get food ready for the rest of the week,” said Jim. “So, my exposure to House of Friendship started when I would have been about eight […]

Ralphy was tired of seeing his friends die. “I lost five friends in one week. It’s something that stays with you,” said Ralphy. He grew up in an abusive household, regularly receiving beatings that were so severe that he couldn’t sit down. Still, Ralphy didn’t turn to drugs until his stepfather was murdered by an […]