Stories to Share

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 […]

Please mark Saturday, October 22 on your calendar, and join us for A Journey of Hope at this year’s Friendship Dinner. We’re thrilled to be able to once again meet with you in person, and share with you hope-filled stories and projects in the midst of daunting headlines on the homelessness crisis. The evening will […]

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 […]

“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 […]

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 […]