2026 brings a significant milestone for our shelter. Five decades ago, we were founded by a group of women who believed it was possible to create a safe haven for women and children fleeing abuse.

Their vision has carried Interval House of Ottawa to our 50th anniversary year. Proud as we are to be Ottawa’s oldest and largest shelter for survivors of gender-based violence, we are observing this milestone with mixed feelings.

Every day, we confront the fact our community has not outgrown the reason we exist. Gender-based violence remains a crisis-level challenge; our shelter is almost always full, and too many survivors don’t have the resources they deserve to escape abuse.

At the same time, Interval House of Ottawa is still here – and we are growing. We have been sustained by 50 years of courage, dedicated work, and ceaseless community support. That is our daily source of hope, and it is profoundly worthy of celebration.

As we approach the starting line of the 2026 Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, we are inviting you to join the community that continues to make it possible for us to show up for survivors in need.

By fundraising for IHO, supporting a fundraising runner, or donating directly to our campaign page, you are part of the five decades of history keeping our doors open, our crisis line ready, and our staff in place for as long as we're needed. Your support also strengthens the message we want to give all survivors: that they are never truly alone.