Staff © Courtesy of Stepstone House
Stepstone House is home to 120 newcomers and refugee claimants in Canada, accommodated across 10 houses in Ottawa, Ontario.
It’s Not Easy
Starting over is never easy, and doing so in a new country comes with its own set of unique challenges. From navigating the immigration processes to securing housing, finding employment, and integrating into the community, refugee claimants and newcomers arriving in Canada are faced with a long journey to stability. But with the help of Stepstone House in Ottawa, the journey is made easier.
Stepstone House is a lifeline in times of need, offering transitional shelter and vital support services to those seeking refuge. Residents stay for a period of three to six months, receiving comprehensive assistance to help them navigate new life in Canada. Established in 2019, housing 24 residents across two houses, Stepstone House has significantly expanded to provide shelter to over 120 residents in 10 houses spread across Ottawa, from Kanata to Orleans and from downtown Ottawa to South Keys. But Stepstone House is much more than a shelter; their impact goes further than a place to lay your head.
A Fresh Start
The goal of Stepstone House is to empower refugee claimants to stand on their own, contribute to society, and create a new life full of opportunities. Each resident is given the tools they need to transition into independent living, from shelter to social support, to settlement services. Stepstone House works closely with government agencies, community organizations and donors to make sure that no one is left behind.
Their process includes guiding refugee claimants through Canada’s complex immigration system, including access to social services, legal aid, biometrics, immigration medicals, assisting with applications for subsidized housing to secure long-term accommodation, and supporting with job searches and connections to employment services.
Outside of the building blocks to a new life in Canada, Stepstone House also provides resources to mental health therapy, counselling and wellness. Their programming also includes volunteer opportunities and cultural networking events to help refugee claimants feel at home.
Community is the driving force behind the organization’s success. For one, having a community to rely on makes the transition to a new country that much easier, and begins the cycle of giving back as early as possible. For another, it’s a way for individuals, companies and community organizations to show their support to newcomers, proving that Ottawa is a welcoming city for refugees.
Organizations like Khalsa Aid and IKEA donate essential items like bedding and linens, hygiene products, and warm clothing. The City of Ottawa Homelessness Branch has also been a dedicated partner, providing resources to support the growing number of refugee claimants in the city. Faith communities like the Life Centre Church and St. Stephen’s Anglican Church have been steady sources of support. Even members of the community get involved in fundraising events, like the 7vs7 Flag Football Fundraiser organized by Franco-Cité Catholic High School students.
Investing in Canada’s Future
Refugee claimants aren’t just looking for safety—they’re looking for a chance to contribute, build, and belong. “Asylum seekers are instrumental to economic growth,” said Rev. Joseph Kiirya, Founder and Executive Director of Stepstone House. “They address labour shortages, become taxpayers, and their presence fosters innovation and growth.”
There are countless ways to get involved and help support our growing community. Donations of all kinds, from financial contributions to help provide housing, food, and essential services, to necessities like bedding, toiletries, food, and household items go a long way in making all the difference to families in need.
Please visit stepstonehouse.ca/donate-now to learn more.
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Stepstone House is a transitional shelter for refugee claimants and newcomers. Established in 2019, Stepstone House is home to over 40 residents accommodated across 5 houses in Canada’s National Capital, Ottawa. The organization provides shelter, sustenance and settlement services.