Stories to Share

Childhood Struggle Leads to Giving Back

Posted on: September 4th, 2020

Eric Pidgen has a very special reason for volunteering with House of Friendship. That’s because when he was only 11, he stayed in a shelter with his mom and sister when his parents were struggling in their marriage. “It was such a shock when I was a kid – there was so much change at […]

Thank You for Making Transformation Possible

Posted on: September 1st, 2020

Today, we celebrate you! Your support over the past three years of our Close to Home story has been incredible. You’ve been with us every step of the way, through all of the challenges, setbacks, and updated vision. Because of you, men, women and families will have the addiction treatment services they need in their […]

New Addiction Treatment Centre Now Open

Posted on: August 31st, 2020

House of Friendship is thrilled to announce that our new Addiction Treatment Centre is now open at 562 Concession Road in Cambridge. “We are incredibly grateful to Waterloo Region. So many people have walked with us through this journey, encouraging us and supporting us every step of the way,” said Executive Director John Neufeld. “It’s […]

You Can See the Difference ShelterCare Makes

Posted on: August 28th, 2020

Soon after House of Friendship’s Men’s Shelter moved to a local hotel, Shelter Supervisor Sheridan Parker noticed something amazing. “I could see the guys who had been staying here at the hotel, and how well rested and healthy they looked, compared to new men arriving a few weeks later. It was incredible.” The COVID-19 pandemic […]

The “House” is a Good House

Posted on: August 21st, 2020

It still doesn’t seem real to Chris. He has a home of his own, for the first time in years – thanks to you! Chris, an amputee who has served in the military, has spent the last two-and-a-half years looking for an accessible apartment that he could afford. While he was waiting, Chris stayed at […]

More than Food

Posted on: August 14th, 2020

It was a chance encounter, a moment that changed everything. A woman in despair found the support she so desperately needed at our Emergency Food Hampers program. It was a normal day for House of Friendship staff Wanda Zimmerman, who had just finished helping a family. She had given one of the children a little […]

“I’m Proud of the Family We Have Today”

Posted on: August 7th, 2020

Earlier this year, Damien and Eileen McKenna did something that many families take for granted – they planned a summer vacation. “When Damien was drinking, we couldn’t do this,” said Eileen. “It’s March – anything could happen between now and August. We could never plan that far ahead.” Just over 10 years ago, Damien found […]

Welcome to a Backyard Chat with John

Posted on: July 10th, 2020

Isn’t that what we all want right now? A chance to connect in person? Join John Neufeld as he provides an update to all of the amazing ways your support has made a difference during COVID-19.   THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for caring for and loving those in our community who […]

‘House of Hope’ Offers A Place of Refuge

Posted on: July 6th, 2020

Ray of Hope and House of Friendship are excited to be working together to provide a temporary emergency shelter to men experiencing homelessness in Waterloo Region at the new ‘House of Hope.’ Operating out of Ray of Hope’s Community Centre (100-659 King St. E.), House of Hope will welcome up to 28 men per night, […]

Help is Available for Your Family

Posted on: June 4th, 2020

For families who have suffered a loss of income during COVID-19, it can be frightening. Not knowing where to turn is often the biggest hurdle. The second? Actually getting up the courage to ask for help. Mehdiya Walji, a Family Outreach Worker with House of Friendship, wants to put your mind at ease. “I’ve had […]