Call Our 24/7 Crisis Line: 613-234-5181
About Us
Our History
In the early 1970s, a group of dedicated women were determined to open a house for women fleeing abuse, so they could have a place to be safe and build a life free from violence. After years of tireless work, in July of 1976, Interval House of Ottawa (IHO) opened its doors in a small home with four beds. It was Ottawa's first shelter for women fleeing abuse.
Since that time, IHO has grown to accommodate 10 women and their dependents in accessible, comfortable, private family bedrooms. In our first 40 years, we served more than 3200 women and 4000 dependents in our home, and countless more through our crisis line and Transitional & Housing Support Program.
Together, we have faced many challenges since 1976. These challenges have inspired us to change and grow in order to provide the best possible service to women fleeing violence. We pride ourselves on the effective partnerships we have established in this time, including, but limited to, the provincial Ministry of Community and Social Services, the City of Ottawa, Children's Aid Society, Andrew Fleck Child Care and the Ottawa Police Service.
Present: Fast Facts from 2023-24
50 survivors resided at IHO
68 dependents resided at IHO
10 pets resided at IHO
185 survivors in the community served by the Transitional & Housing Support Program
530 hours were spent counselling in-shelter
2220 calls were made to the crisis line
1534 texts and chats received at Unsafe at Home Ottawa text & chat line
722 individuals turned away due to capacity limitations
At Interval House of Ottawa (IHO), we are dedicated to strengthening our connections with community partners, enhancing advocacy efforts, and providing vital services to survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Our role as co-chairs of the GBV pillar within the City of Ottawa’s Community Safety and Well-Being Plan allows us to contribute to a comprehensive strategy for addressing GBV in our community.
We actively organize community forums to unite GBV service providers and identify key priorities for prevention and response. A major focus is improving coordination among community services and partners, including strengthening ties with Indigenous communities. We are committed to ensuring that our services are culturally relevant and accessible, and we are working collaboratively with Indigenous organizations to better support those in need.
Our partnerships with organizations like Voicefound, dedicated to supporting human trafficking survivors, enable us to provide specialized care and resources. Additionally, we are expanding our outreach to LGBTQIA+ youth through collaboration with Kind Space, offering direct support to those accessing drop-in services. Our partnership with the City of Ottawa’s Catherine Street Hub allows us to provide on-site support to survivors, ensuring help is accessible where it’s needed most.
We have also made significant improvements to our facilities, creating a safe and welcoming environment for all residents. These enhancements ensure our spaces are not only aesthetically pleasing but also safe and accessible.Looking ahead, IHO remains committed to building on our successes by fostering strong partnerships, advocating for essential resources, and expanding our service offerings. We recognize the ongoing challenges faced by survivors and are dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate support. Our future priorities include further program expansion, investment in staff training, and exploring innovative approaches to service delivery.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our community partners, staff, and supporters for their unwavering commitment. Together, we are making a meaningful impact in the lives of those we serve, creating a safer and more supportive community for all.
Our Mission
Interval House of Ottawa (IHO) provides safe shelter and support, intervention and prevention services, and advocacy to break the cycle of violence.
Who We Serve
IHO works from an intersectional , feminist and anti-oppressive approach to provide inclusive and trauma informed services for the community, including residential services for women and gender diverse folks who are impacted by violence.
Financials & Accountability
When reliable housing, income, ongoing mental health care and child and/or pet care is readily available and accessible to a survivor, a life free from violence and fear becomes possible.
Providing education and resources on how abuse impacts people in the city of Ottawa is a critical aspect of our work. Community knowledge building creates a safer community for those experiencing violence.
Our Vision
Interval House of Ottawa leads the way in building a community committed to healthy and respectful relationships, free from all violence and abuse.
Our Values
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Client-centred
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Empathy
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Empowerment
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Intersectionality
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Leadership
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Accountability
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Respect
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