PROGRAM BENEFITING FROM HOPE FUNDING

Funding from HOPE would support our Request for Support Program, where we provide the following support/services to OCDSB students in need:
Food Security - This program provides access to food during family emergencies as well as nutritional snacks in the classroom so that children can focus on learning as opposed to hunger.
Crisis Support - During their greatest time of need, we do our best to answer their call by providing appropriate clothing, basic personal supplies, and the necessary tools for learning (including backpacks and school supplies).
Vision Wear - Reducing the many barriers associated with system navigation, transportation, and access to care, this program provides ophthalmic frames and lenses to students who need prescription glasses by providing services directly in schools.
Autism Water Safety Program - Water safety is the number one risk for individuals with Autism. Providing access to water safety and swim lessons builds independence, as well as important social and life skills.
Access to Opportunities within the Arts, Athletics, and Enrichment Activities -
Students’ involvement supports a sense of belonging and provides equitable opportunities to build social skills and lifelong connections.

PROGRAM BENEFITING FROM HOPE FUNDING

The pool and recreation spaces at Waupoos Farm are the key reason why Waupoos Farm summer vacations are so popular. Many children have never had free access to a swimming pool, never had a swimming lesson and will spend countless hours enjoying this freedom. As their parents gather to watch them, or perhaps take a few swimming lessons too, friendships begin to develop and the isolation these families live with begins to diminish. 

Our pool (installed in 1982) requires numerous upgrades to improve both aesthetics and safety. We are constantly endeavoring to reduce maintenance costs, extend the life of the pool, and make it easier to maintain. In addition, we need a sturdy sun shelter that can offer protection from the weather and increase opportunities to gather in a safer way.

PROGRAM BENEFITING FROM H.O.P.E. FUNDING

Dress for Success works with clients both before and after finding employment through professional development programming to learn new skills and grow in their careers. These educational opportunities are offered as part of our All Women Empowered Suite of Programs.
 Since 2016 Dress for Success has offered a full-day in-person professional development conference and grew it to 200 clients thanks to 2017 HOPE funding. The majority of Dress for Success clients have never had, and many never will, have the opportunity to attend a
professional conference. This is due either to lack of professional development opportunities in their workplace or because of financial barriers as many conferences can cost upwards of $500.00 per attendee. This conference fills an important educational need for many women in our community striving toward economic independence and professional success.
In 2023 we look to return to running the In-Person Conference experience with an added hybrid component to allow clients of other Dress for Success Affiliates to continue to use this vital program as a tool in their career journeys.
With the funds received from H.O.P.E., Dress for Success Ottawa will grow the AWE Conference in 2024 increasing the workshop offerings throughout the day. With these funds, over 200 Dress for Success Ottawa clients will be able to participate in and benefit from this professional conference.

PROGRAM BENEFITING FROM HOPE FUNDING

The power of a wish is an incredible gift to give to a sick child and their family. A wish-come-true empowers a child to take back control over their life, giving HOPE for the future during the dark days of difficult treatments, surgeries, or hospital stays away from family and friends. It helps foster a child’s belief that miracles can happen, and that anything is possible, even their future. The wish experience has proven physical and emotional benefits that can give children with critical illnesses a higher chance of survival.  In fact, our referring doctors say that it’s the best prescription they can write. Funds received from H.O.P.E. would go directly towards our mission of granting the wishes of children living with a critical medical condition in our territory of Eastern Ontario.

PROGRAM BENEFITING FROM HOPE FUNDING

Camp Quality Eastern Ontario is a 1-week volunteer-run camp for children affected by cancer.
It is an exciting & safe place for kids to explore new talents, meet new friends, & have fun. At camp, they are no longer defined by illness, but have the freedom to participate in activities, make friends & create memories that will last a lifetime.
For kids with cancer, CQ is the one opportunity they have to connect with kids with similar experiences. Studies including children living with illness have found that social support relates to positive coping abilities, and the ability to cope with illness. Camp programs for kids with cancer have shown to provide this social support and improve mental health.
Camp prepares children affected by cancer to thrive into their futures by addressing the psychosocial impacts of cancer. By developing the strengths that they need for their futures, camp helps kids grow into active & engaged citizens that are ready to make a positive impact in their community. Campers & volunteers are directly impacted by Camp Quality & camp has a broad reach beyond the camp week, because campers & volunteers spread the positivity of camp to those around them. H.O.P.E.’s help will make this possible by funding all aspects of our program, including program supplies, facilitator fees and camp clothing. Through your generosity we can continue to grow and serve more kids affected by childhood cancer.