Maama Watali House
Building Ottawa’s safe haven for Black and racialized women survivors
A safe place to land
Join us in creating a much-needed safe haven in Ottawa for Black and racialized women survivors of violence and their families.
Maama Watali’s mission is to help Black and racialized women in Ottawa live a life free from partner violence including but not limited to physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological assault. As our first residential project, Maama Watali House will offer these survivors and their families a safe place to land so they can take a breath, look forward with hope, and plan their next steps.
Transitional units will be available to those who need them for six to 18 months, so they can take the time to find longer-term housing. Maama Watali House will also provide a comprehensive support system including employment services, counselling, child care, and access to shared spaces that foster community, connection, and support.
The location of the proposed project is at 109 Fourth Avenue in Ottawa’s Glebe neighbourhood. The property is owned by the Fourth Avenue Baptist Church and includes a two-floor addition that Maama Watali plans to lease and convert into transitional units. In total, the proposed project will include 14 units including studios, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom spaces.
Project details
SERVING SURVIVORS OF PARTNER VIOLENCE
MONTHS STAYS
TRANSITIONAL HOUSING UNITS
A PATH TO A BETTER FUTURE
A project filled with momentum
Maama Watali engaged CAHDCO to conduct a feasibility study to analyze the proposed project, determine its financial viability, and provide recommendations for ensuring financial viability. The January 2024 report provides recommendations on funding sources for both pre-development and construction, as well as planning considerations.
Moving forward, Maama Watali will engage CAHDCO’s support in applying for funding and grants within the city of Ottawa and beyond. These include the likes of Federation of Canadian Municipalities grants, and the CMHC Seed program.
In the meantime, we’d love your support as we continue with our planning and fundraising activities!
Be part of the solution
Join us in creating a much-needed safe haven in Ottawa for Black and racialized women survivors of violence and their families.