Transitional and Supportive Housing Program

In response to a need identified by JHS’ Board and staff with encouragement from the Ottawa Police Services, three residences are available to provide monitoring and support for ex-prisoners who have been determined to be “high risk/need releases.” A total of 46 beds are available, including 37 independent studio apartments and 9 rooms where residents share kitchen and bathroom facilities.
The goal is to provide safe, affordable housing for the period immediately following release, during a time of crisis, or while completing Drug Treatment Court, sex offender or mental health treatment. While providing residents with stable accommodation, JHS staff work with individuals towards longer term housing and employment related goals. Residents are expected to pay $340 per month in rent from their Ontario Works benefits. Monitoring and support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, with periods of residency ranging from three months to several years. There is also a follow-up period of support for at least 3 additional months. Residents move on when their conditions of release permit them to do so, and when they find safe, affordable housing.
Current funding includes per diem contracts with the Correctional Service of Canada (20 beds), Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services (14 beds) and Ottawa Drug Treatment Court (4 beds). The funding is secure and negotiations are underway to include a mental health per diem contract.
Assessments and case planning are conducted and all services and supports are offered on a one on one basis. Residents may also be escorted by staff to medical or treatment appointments and some bus tickets are available. A food bank is accessible to all residents who may stay voluntarily, although leaving the residence would cause problems with both the drug treatment court judge and probation/parole supervisors.

John Howard Society of Ottawa: Main Office
550 Old St. Patrick Street
Ottawa, ON
K1N 5L5