Families First

Families First is a referral-based, Housing First Program supporting families moving from shelter to permanrnt housing.

The Families First Program receives referrals from the shelter caseworkers. We provide support to families who are leaving the shelter and moving into their own homes. We create housing plans based on each family’s needs and offer information and support. We also connect families to community resources and services.  We work with families for a period of 9 months.

Program Highlights:

(Updated January 2025)

• 14 Years of Service 

The Families First Program has been helping families since its launch in 2011.

• 3341 Families Served 

Families First has served over 3,341 families since its launch.  We currently serve over 400 families per year.

• 99.3% Housing Retention Rate 

Families First has succeeded in supporting families to stay housed with 99.3% of families maintaining their housing during 2019-2024.

• 27800 km2 Ottawa 

The Families First program serves the whole of Ottawa area.

Testimonials:

• "Our case manager was a like a family member. It 's a good program. It's very encouraging. It gave me a sense of belonging to a community and raised my self esteem."

• "The program was good and helpful. I didn't want my file to close as I wanted more than 9 months. But I am so appreciative of the 9 months I had. I reached all my goals. I got awesome support from my case worker. She was so nice to me and very friendly and very hard worker."

• "My case worker gave me lots of support and information about programs for myself and my son. This helped us feel connected and helped my son make friends. It was great that this was offered without any thing in return it is a very needed service for people like me."