Stories to Share

“We Believe in What You are Doing”

Posted on: September 16th, 2022

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 […]

You Helped Me Get the Life I Have Today

Posted on: September 9th, 2022

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 […]

A Warm Welcome

Posted on: August 19th, 2022

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 […]

Kindness is a Choice

Posted on: August 5th, 2022

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 […]

No Longer Alone

Posted on: July 29th, 2022

“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 […]

Growing Future Leaders

Posted on: July 22nd, 2022

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 […]

Giving Back As a Way of Life

Posted on: July 15th, 2022

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 […]

The Right Help at the Right Time

Posted on: July 8th, 2022

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 […]

The Fullness of Community

Posted on: June 24th, 2022

For Sue, Eby Village is more than a place to live; it’s a community. This makes it different from any other place she has called home. “People talk to each other and spend time together and help each other.” Built in 1990, Eby Village is one of House of Friendship’s supportive housing communities. Here, residents […]

“I Squeeze My Money and Keep Going”

Posted on: May 25th, 2022

Everything is costing more these days. Few people know this more than Michael. Every week, Michael, 66, visits Chandler Mowat Community Centre, to supplement his limited income with food at House of Friendship’s weekly food distribution program. He also finds many other ways to try and save money, whether it is collecting empty beer cans, […]

Sign up for Friendship News!

Learn more about how you can make a difference and ensure that everyone can belong and thrive in Waterloo Region! Receive inspirational stories about how you are making a difference right to your inbox.