History of the Centre
Centre 454 began as an Anglican ministry to men in the Ottawa county jail. It was initiated in 1954 by the Council for Social Services of the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa and provided support to Anglican men who were preparing for their release from jail and re-entry into society.
The ministry evolved over time to include support for men after they left jail, a food bank, housing search, and a jobs bank. As the services changed and expanded, new space requirements were accommodated by various downtown Anglican churches including, St George’s, St. Luke’s, St. John the Evangelist and in 1976 to St. Alban the Martyr at 454 King Edward. It was here that “Centre 454” was born.
Centre 454’s objectives broadened to incorporate companionship through a social recreation program, emotional support for isolated and socially disadvantaged men and women through a counselling program, and practical supports such as laundry, showers, and clothing.
In 2000, Centre 454 moved to its present location at 216 Murray Street, near King Edward Avenue. The name was retained since, in the words of one wise participant, ‘How else would people find this great place?’
Today we welcome on average 235 people daily as they strive to meet a number of daily living needs. The services have expanded to include ‘In-Reach’ where other organizations provide specialized services at Centre 454, and the addition of group work within each program stream. Our participant volunteer program helps develop the skills required to gain and maintain employment.
Centre 454 has a large contingent of volunteers who have come to us through the Anglican Diocese and through connections with many other groups both faith-based and secular. As part of our commitment to train future leaders in the fight against homelessness, we work in partnership with the post secondary institutions in our area to provide learning opportunities for social work students.
Since 2003, and with the support of United Way/Centraide Ottawa, Centre 454 services have expanded to include weekend hours during the cold weather months. This enables the community to come out of the cold into a safe and welcoming environment.
The Centre is supported financially through grants from the Anglican Diocese of Ottawa, the City of Ottawa, United Way/Centraide Ottawa and the Government of Canada. Contributions are also received from private donors and corporate and business supporters. In-kind donations and donations of material goods are also received from many groups and individuals.
Our membership in the Alliance to End Homelessness and the Day Programs Coalition keeps us connected to other stakeholders in the fight to end homelessness in Ottawa.
The future is always difficult to predict; but one thing is certain – the community at Centre 454 will continue to welcome people into our midst as long as we are needed.