An Ottawa nonprofit that has furnished homes for hundreds of refugee families is closing its doors. House to Home, founded by Suzi Shore Sauvé, announced it will cease operations, ending a vital service that helped newcomers settle into their new lives.
A Legacy of Support
Since its inception, House to Home has provided furniture, kitchenware, bedding, and other household essentials to refugees arriving in Ottawa. The organization worked closely with sponsorship groups and settlement agencies to ensure families had a comfortable start.
Founder Suzi Shore Sauvé expressed mixed emotions about the closure. "It has been an incredible journey, but all good things must come to an end," she said in a statement. "We are proud of what we have accomplished and grateful to the community for its unwavering support."
Reasons for Closure
The decision to close was driven by several factors, including funding challenges and the increasing demand for services. Sauvé noted that the organization struggled to secure consistent financial support, making it difficult to sustain operations.
"We have seen a surge in refugee arrivals over the past few years, and our resources were stretched thin," she explained. "Despite the generosity of donors and volunteers, we could not keep up with the need."
Impact on Refugees
The closure leaves a gap in services for newly arrived refugees, who often arrive with little more than the clothes on their backs. House to Home was a lifeline, providing not just material goods but also a sense of welcome and dignity.
"House to Home made a huge difference for my family," said a former client who wished to remain anonymous. "When we arrived, we had nothing. They gave us a bed to sleep on and a table to eat at. It made us feel like we belonged."
Community Response
News of the closure has saddened many in Ottawa. Local officials and community leaders have praised the organization's work and expressed hope that other groups might fill the void.
"House to Home has been a beacon of compassion in our city," said a city councillor. "We need to find ways to continue supporting refugees, especially as global displacement numbers rise."
Looking Ahead
Sauvé is working to ensure a smooth wind-down, with remaining furniture and funds being donated to other charities. She hopes that the legacy of House to Home will inspire others to step up.
"We may be closing, but the need is still there," she said. "I encourage everyone to support refugee settlement in whatever way they can."
The organization's storage facility on Walkley Road will be cleared in the coming weeks, marking the end of an era for Ottawa's refugee community.
