Stories to Share

Jim Blair knew what it was like to see a life of potential not given the opportunity to shine. It happened to his own mother who although very bright, was never able to attend high school. There was simply no money and she was needed at home. Jim’s wife Lorna has a similar story. Her […]

Christine struggled finding a place in this world for her daughter, Grace. Grace, who has autism, had enrolled in a number of programs in the past, never finding a true fit. It had gotten to the point where she didn’t want to try anything new. She would rather just stay home, where she felt safe. […]

Luc Parrow has a big heart. At only six years of age, Luc was so inspired by the “5 Days of Giving” at his school, Laurelwood Public School, that he wanted to do even more to make sure everyone has food to eat. “I was concerned about people not having enough food,” said Luc. So, […]

Marlene O’Brien wasn’t even born yet when her parents received a Christmas food hamper. She knows the story, though, because of the lasting impact it had on her family. The story has been told over and over again through the generations because of how much it mattered. Marlene even wrote down this story, so that […]

It’s only a few weeks until Christmas, but we’re already feeling the joy that comes with the season. That’s because today is the start of our Christmas Hamper program, where hundreds of volunteers will pack and deliver Christmas Hampers to 4,000 individuals and families in need in Kitchener and Waterloo. Hundreds more are facing the […]

At this year’s Friendship Dinner, we shared the vision that compels us forward – ShelterCare: Integrating Healthcare and Shelter. We invite you to join this vision – and make ShelterCare a reality.

At House of Friendship, we’ve been celebrating all year long on 80 Years of Stronger Together. We know we couldn’t have made this journey without all of your support through the years. Thank you for being part of our story.

Wow – we’re still smilling! When a group of passionate people dedicated to combating homelessness gets together, amazing things can happen! An incredible committee of volunteers helped this year’s Hockey Helps the Homeless K-W hockey tournament reach an impressive goal, raising an amazing $1 million over six short years.  That means $1 million going to […]

We hope to see you at this year’s Friendship Dinner on Oct. 26! This year, we will both reflect on our past 80 years as an organization and share a vision that compels us forward – a future where health care and emergency shelter are seamlessly integrated in our community. The difficulties of those experiencing […]

The impact of the opioid crisis is continuing to be felt throughout Waterloo Region, including at House of Friendship. But thanks to the Housing First model that is used in our Supportive Housing programs at Charles Village and Eby Village, individuals who need housing can find a place to call their own – regardless of […]