Programs and news:
Over the past year, we have seen a troubling rise in antisemitism in Canada. This is unacceptable. I have added my name to the letter published by my colleague Anthony Housefather to reaffirm that it is essential to stand united against hatred in all its forms. Our communities are stronger when we work together to promote respect, inclusion, and safety for everyone.
You can read my colleague’s statement, that I also signed below:
Statement on the Deplorable Rise of Antisemitism in Canada
"Jewish Canadians – like all Canadians – have a fundamental right to feel safe in Canada. Regrettably, right now, there is a deep sense of unease, fear and unsafety among many Jewish Canadians across Canada.
On Thursday, a Jewish woman was stabbed in Ottawa while shopping at a grocery store in an incident police are treating as a hate-motivated crime. The man who attacked her has previously posted virulent antisemitic comments on social media. Three years ago, such an incident would have been shocking. Today, much less so. From attacks on synagogues, Jewish schools and monuments, Jewish owned businesses, Jewish community organizations and lately individual Jews themselves, antisemitism is becoming normalized.
Since Hamas’s brutal terrorist attack on Israel on October 7th and Israel’s military response, anti-Jewish hatred has skyrocketed the world over. Canada is no exception. In Canada, like other countries, actions to target local Jewish communities and make them responsible for actions happening in the Middle East, are wrong, unacceptable, and antisemitic.
Right now, Jews make up slightly more than 1% of Canada’s population, but are the victims of 70% of reported religious-based acts of hate. This spreading hate is a call to action for all Canadians, all levels of government, law enforcement, schools, public institutions and places of work.
As Parliamentarians, we have already done work to determine what concrete actions are needed by all levels of government, schools and police. We support the actions recommended in the December 2024 Report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights, and the outcomes of the March 2025 National Forum on Combatting Antisemitism. As Members of Parliament, we stand firmly behind the Prime Minister’s commitment to quickly bring forward changes to the Criminal Code this fall to prevent unlawful fear and intimidation outside places of worship, schools and community centres.
We are committed to keeping all Canadians safe. This includes the Jewish community that has contributed so much to building the vibrant country we have today. Jews should be able to live their lives safely with their Jewish identity proudly known, on the streets, at work, at community gatherings and in schools and on campuses. Every one of us in Canada owes this to our neighbours and to one another."
The Local Food Infrastructure Fund (LFIF) supports small-scale projects to:
- Improve food security
- Increase access to local, nutritious, and culturally appropriate foods
- Support our communities and strengthen self-sufficiency
Grants available: $25,000 – $100,000
Application period: August 25 to September 19, 2025
This fund is an essential opportunity to increase the availability of healthy, local foods in our region.
Full details and eligibility criteria available here : https://agriculture.canada.ca/.../local-food...
New Horizons for Seniors Program
 The New Horizons for Seniors Program is now accepting applications for community-based projects! Up to $25,000 in federal funding available
Led by seniors, driven by volunteers
Builds more inclusive, connected communities
 Deadline: September 17, 2025 at 3:00 PM (EDT)
If your organization has a great idea designed by seniors, for seniors here in Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester, now is the time to apply.
 Learn more: bit.ly/3Jb3Oh7
We’re here to help
Whether it's passports, immigration, pensions, the Canada Child Benefit, or other government programs, we’re here to help residents of Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester access the services they need.
Contact us by phone, by email, or visit us during our office hours, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In the community
  Join the 45th Anniversary of the Terry Fox Run!
On Sunday, September 14, 2025  , communities across Canada will unite to honour Terry Fox's legacy and support cancer research. You can participate by running, walking, or riding at your own pace. This non-competitive, volunteer-led event welcomes all ages and abilities!
 Click here to register today at any one of the Ottawa Runs!
Race to End Homelessness
The Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa, together with its members and partners, is launching the Race to End Homelessness — a brand-new run/walk event with 10 km, 5 km, and 1 km options. The goal: to raise awareness, mobilize our community, and bring people together around one essential mission — a future where everyone has a place to call home. 👟
Every step taken on October 4 will shine a light on the urgent need for safe and affordable housing, as well as the human stories behind the statistics. By participating, you won’t just experience a day of action and awareness — you’ll be part of the solution. 🏡
🔗 Register today: https://raceroster.com/events/2025/106339/race-to-end-homelessness
Become a Sponsor for the 50th Anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian Flag
On September 25, 2025, TD Place Arena will light up in the colours of Francophonie to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag with a major free community event: Le Cinq-Zéro.
This unique evening will bring the community together with performances, entertainment, historical capsules, and special moments of recognition to mark half a century of Franco-Ontarian pride.
You can become a sponsor of this historic celebration.
By joining us, you will:
Highlight local talent and artistic diversity
Strengthen community pride and belonging
Offer a memorable experience to the entire community
Sponsor visibility includes:
Your logo on event posters, promotional visuals, and the giant screen at TD Place
Public acknowledgement during the evening and on social media
An opportunity to set up a booth or banner in the “community alley”
Sponsorship opportunities start at $500.
For more information or to confirm your participation, please contact Beaverly Milord at [email protected].
Together, let’s create the magic of Le Cinq-Zéro and showcase Franco-Ontarian pride today and for the future.
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This lab located at the Ottawa Art Court and Art Gallery is led by Ryan and Remco. This summer, Madeleine, a dynamic young participant in the Canada Summer Jobs program, also had the opportunity to develop hands-on skills in media arts, technology, and creative innovation.
© 2026 Mona Fortier