Word from your MP
Canadians in Atlantic Canada and Eastern Québec are also facing challenges as we move into this festive time. Many communities are rebuilding after the devastating impacts of Hurricane Fiona. Canadians wishing to donate to help those impacted by Hurricane Fiona can do so online at www.redcross.ca, by calling 1-800-418-1111, or by texting FIONA to 20222 to make a $10 donation. Canadians have donated over $10 million thus far, and because the federal government is matching donations to the Canadian Red Cross, an estimated $20 million will support the people impacted by Hurricane Fiona.
This week is also Mental Illness Awareness Week, an opportunity to raise awareness and break down barriers that contribute to the stigma around mental health. Holidays can be difficult for many, so I encourage you to offer your support to family, friends and neighbours. We can create greater understanding by helping to prevent the stigma around mental health and making sure our loved ones don’t have to suffer in silence.
In the Community
Reflecting on the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
In honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, I attended a memorial service at Beechwood Cemetery in memory of Dr. Peter Bryce, an influential voice in the movement to raise awareness of the harms inflicted in residential schools.
I also joined my fellow parliamentarians in marching from Parliament Hill to LeBreton Flats for an event honouring the experiences of residential school survivors and the affected families and communities. We all have a role to play in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.
Great News for Arts Court
I recently joined Ottawa’s current mayor, Jim Watson, and Rideau-Vanier Councillor, Mathieu Fleury, for the launch of the Arts Court Redevelopment project, a multi-disciplinary art space for Ottawa’s artist community to create, perform, and teach. Make sure to stop by to see unique art pieces or join art workshops by Ottawa’s local artists.
Celebrating 50 years of francophone education at La Verendrye
La Vérendrye Catholic Elementary School recently celebrated 50 years of quality, French-language education in our community. My youngest daughter, Isabelle, grew up at La Vérendrye and my mom, Françoise, taught at the school for over 15 years. My family is thankful to everyone who has made La Vérendrye a good learning and living environment for our children, families, and community. Happy celebrations to all!
Celebrating Latin American Heritage month
Last October 1st, I joined members of Ottawa’s Latin American community to celebrate the beginning of Latin American Heritage Month. Canadians of Latin American heritage bring vibrant and unique stories, traditions, and socio-economic contributions to our communities.
Reminder: Apply to Join the Ottawa-Vanier Youth Council
If you are between the ages of 16 and 24 and live in Ottawa–Vanier, I encourage you to apply to join the Ottawa-Vanier Youth Council.
Come meet your peers, share your advice and opinions, and take part in a unique civic learning experience right here in our community.
To apply, fill out the registration form by October 18, 2022:
Fill out the registration form
If you have any questions, please call the constituency team at 613-996-1860 or email at [email protected].
Come Work for the Member of Parliament of Ottawa–Vanier!
I am currently seeking someone who is energetic, committed, diligent, and eager to learn to work in my constituency office! My office is currently accepting applications for the role of Senior Constituency Assistant.
This position will play a lead role in community outreach, stakeholder relations, and play a senior leadership role in the case work for the office. All applicants must be bilingual to serve the diverse needs of the community. Previous constituency or parliamentary experience is not required.
For the full job description and required qualifications, visit my website: monafortier.libparl.ca.
To apply for this position, please send your resume (CV) and a letter of intent to [email protected].
Government Programs and Services
Ongoing Efforts in the Wake of Hurricane Fiona
In the wake of Hurricane Fiona, thousands of Canadians are rebuilding their homes and businesses. The federal government continues to respond to the needs of people impacted by the storm and support the long-term recovery of the region.
- Established a donation-matching program with the Canadian Red Cross to support those impacted by the storm and will match donations Canadians and corporations.
- Mobilized the Canadian Armed Forces to assist in the emergency response.
- Announced the creation of the Hurricane Fiona Recovery Fund which provides up to $300 million over two years, starting this year, to support the communities impacted by Fiona and help long-term recovery efforts, including repairing and rebuilding infrastructure and restoring local economies, including repairing and rebuilding infrastructure and restoring local economies.
New Horizons for Seniors: 2022-23 Call for Proposals
The Government of Canada supports positive outcomes for seniors by supporting organizations that help seniors stay active and engaged in their communities and maintain their quality of life.
Organizations can submit proposals for community-based projects for the 2022-2023 New Horizons for Seniors Program until November 1, 2022.
Click here for details on how to apply
For further details on the call for proposals, see the Government of Canada launches call for proposals for community projects to support seniors.
Become a House of Commons Page
The House of Commons Page Program offers 40 young Canadians the chance to come to Ottawa and work in Parliament for a full year. It’s a unique opportunity to broaden your horizons and knowledge of the Canadian Parliamentary system by taking part in the rich traditions of Parliament.
To apply, visit House of Commons: Become a Page.
Mental illness awareness week
The pandemic has heavily impacted many people and their mental health, but it has also fostered more open and honest conversations about mental health, substance abuse, and what we can do to provide greater support to those in need.
There are multiple resources and supports available for mental health:
Kids Help Phone is available to youths on multiple platforms.
- text CONNECT to 686868 (available 24/7);
- Talk to someone via Live Chat; or
- Dial 1-888-668-6810 (available 24/7)
Hope for Wellness is available to Indigenous peoples across the country for counselling and crisis support (available 24/7).
- Dial 1-855-242-3310 (toll-free)
Talk Suicide Canada provides nationwide, bilingual support (available 24/7).
- Dial 1-833-456-4566 (toll-free)
- Send a text message to 45645 (text service available evenings from 4:00 PM to midnight Eastern Time)
Contact us!
The Honourable Mona Fortier, P.C. M.P. Ottawa-Vanier
Constituency Office:
233 Montréal Road
Ottawa (Ontario)
K1L 6C7
613.998.1860
[email protected]