January 24, 2025 newsletter from Rawlson King, City Councillor for Rideau-Rockcliffe.
A Message from Councillor King
Dear Residents:
After extensive political advocacy, the City of Ottawa announced this week that it will receive $10.5 million in federal funding over two years to address homelessness, part of direct investments distributed to 10 cities. This allocation will support Ottawa's $14-million encampment strategy, developed after the City established an emergency task force in 2023 to address shelter overcrowding and winter safety concerns.
The funding complements $40.4 million already provided to the City from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for refugee housing support. Ottawa's current strategy focuses on expanding shelter capacity through 400 new transitional housing beds. The City has repurposed several properties for temporary housing, including a federal building on Lanark Avenue (with a lease expiring next month), a converted Queen Street office tower, a former convent, and space within a downtown YMCA.
The City also continues to explore additional housing solutions while developing protective measures for existing tenants. This week, Council approved a planned study to examine a potential renoviction bylaw, pending provincial action on the 2023 Residential Tenancies Act.
A renoviction occurs when a landlord evicts a tenant to make major repairs or renovations to a property. Renoviction is a method for landlords, acting in bad faith, to increase rents in areas where housing is in high demand. Renovictions make it near to impossible for tenants to find new housing, especially since affordable rental housing is scarce.
While the provincial legislation that has been passed puts in place protection against renovictions, it has not been enacted by the provincial government, resulting in no enforcement actions against bad faith landlords. Consequently, the City will write to Premier Doug Ford to determine the Ontario government’s intentions surrounding enactment of the legislation. If Ontario does not respond by April 1, Ottawa will proceed with its own study.
The City’s study will investigate legal and practical measures to prevent unnecessary evictions under the guise of renovations. While primary tenant protection authority rests with the province, the City aims to address the impact of displaced residents on municipal housing services. The initiative would combine immediate assistance with long-term planning to address both urgent needs and systemic challenges.
As your City Councillor, I will continue to support an integrated approach towards seeking solutions to homelessness and the provision of affordable housing that leverages partnerships between federal, provincial, municipal, and community organizations. I regularly advocate for necessary funding from senior levels of government to enhance housing affordability and was happy to vote in favour of the exploration of a renoviction bylaw for the City of Ottawa this week.
I believe that the most impactful strategies for preventing homelessness begin through early intervention while concurrently providing support services. The City must continue to bolster programs that combine expanded housing options with tenant protection measures to create a more stable housing environment. Such initiatives represent ongoing efforts to address urban housing challenges through collaborative governance and community partnership. While significant challenges remain, the combination of federal funding, municipal programs, and planned tenant protections provides a framework for continued progress in addressing Ottawa's housing needs.
Your Councillor in the Community







Rideau-Rockcliffe News, Events and Engagement Opportunities
Cold Weather Resources
Be winter ready!
- Download the WeatherCAN app to get directly notified of ECCC alerts.
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Get advice and support:
- Call 2-1-1 to reach Community Navigation of Eastern Ontario (CNEO). CNEO provides social services assistance (e.g., accessing warm clothing, contacts for community outreach services)
- Call 3-1-1 for information and assistance on helping someone get out of the cold, including transportation to shelter.
- Call 8-1-1 Health Connect Ontario for non-emergency medical advice such as concerns about mental health and wanting to speak with a professional.
- Call 9-1-1 for a medical emergency such as frostbite or hypothermia.
- Visit www.OttawaPublicHealth.ca/ColdWeather to find information on cold weather and resources in our community, including an interactive map of Places to Warm Up in Ottawa.
- Visit www.cneo-nceo.ca/publications-and-lists to find CNEO’s List of Out of the Cold locations (Ottawa) 2024/2025. CNEO also has local social service and support information.
Ottawa Family Cinema presents Paddington 2 - Jan. 25
Lindenlea ice skating party - Jan. 25
The Lindenlea Community Association hosts an ice skating party on the Lindenlea outdoor rink at Lindenlea Park on Jan. 25 from 1 to 2:30 pm. There will be hot chocolate, snacks and music. This event is free to attend and is open to everyone in Lindenlea and surrounding communities.
Volunteer tax preparers needed
The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre is seeking volunteers for their upcoming free income tax clinic. For details and to apply, please visit www.crcrr.org/individualsupport.
- Tuesdays from 11 to 11:45 am at Seventh Day Adventist Church, 194 Prince Albert Street
- Tuesdays from 12 to 1 pm at Donald Court, 251/255 Donald Street
- Wednesdays from 9:45 to 10:15 am at Carson's Community House, 710 Carson Road
- Wednesdays from 2 to 3:15 pm at The Rideau-Rockcliffe Community Resource Centre, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard
- first and third Fridays of the month - 12:45 to 1:15 pm at 1300 Père Charlebois Avenue
- second and fourth Fridays of the month - 12:45 to 1:15 pm at Queen Mary Court, 725 Bernard Street
And in nearby Vanier:
- Fridays from 3:15 to 3:45 pm at the Vanier Community Service Centre, 161 Marier Avenue
NCC Core Area Sector Plan - survey open until Feb. 5
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Practice English or French in a friendly, relaxed environment.
- English Conversation Group: Thursdays at 6:30 pm
- Groupe de conversation en francais : les mardis 18 h 30 - 20 h
- Knitting & Crochet Club: Tuesdays 1 to 3 pm
Game afternoon (bilingual) - drop-in
- Jan. 29 at 2:30 pm. Come to the library to have some fun and work those brains. Let’s play Scrabble, Mah Jong, Monopoly, Yahtzee, Jenga, card games or chess!
Children’s Drop-in programs
- Family Storytime in English: Mondays at 10:30 am
- Babytime: Tuesdays at 10:30 am
- Contes en famille (en francais) : les mercredis, 10 h 30
- Homework Club: Wednesdays at 5 pm for ages 6-12
Family Literacy Day (in English): Jan. 27 at 3:30 pm. Celebrate Family Literacy Day 2025 with Honorary Chair Barbara Reid (virtual presenter)! Barbara will be doing a demonstration on how to use clay to create a picture. The event is pre-recorded and will be viewed in branch as we follow along to create our own works of art using clay. This event is ideal for families with children aged 6 to 12.
Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hub services in Ward 13 - January
Do you have questions about your baby? Want to know if your child is on track? Do you have questions about your child's growth and development? The Parenting in Ottawa drop-ins are located across Ottawa. Speak with a Public Health Nurse about parenting.
- Get support for infant feeding and perinatal mental health
- Learn ways to help your child eat healthy and be active
- Make sure your child is on track with their growth and development
- Ask about your child's social and emotional development
The program is available to expectant parents, parents and guardians of children aged birth to six years of age. No appointment necessary. Simply drop-in during the clinic's hours. Clinics are closed on statutory holidays unless otherwise specified. Drop by the St. Laurent Complex on Jan. 26 between 10 am and 12:30 pm or the Vanier Community Services Centre at 270 Marier Avenue on Jan. 28 between 1:30 and 3:30 pm. For more information, please visit www.parentinginottawa.ca/en/dropins.aspx.

Thursdays (ongoing)
9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.
Children aged 0 to 4 and their parents or caregivers are welcome to attend a free drop-in playgroup at the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse, 203 Stanley Avenue, on Thursday mornings from 9 to 11 am. This is an informal and unstructured opportunity to socialize with other families in your community. Please bring your own toy and snack for your child. Some warm beverages are available for adults. For more information, please email: [email protected]

2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
A weekly opportunity for seniors to connect inside the New Edinburgh Park Fieldhouse at 203 Stanley Avenue. Join other members of older generations interested in connecting with others of like mind to enhance their social lives. This group meets casually over a cup of tea or coffee and some goodies for conversation and companionship. Activities of the group such as games or walks are chosen by those who attend and may change from week to week. For more information, email: [email protected]

- Monday - Friday 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
- Saturday - Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Mark your calendar: online registration for the Vanier Museopark's French summer camps will beginthe week of January 27, 2025. Children will be entertained, in French, throughout the summer season, thanks to diversified programming, numerous guests and stimulating outings. On the menu each week: nature excursions, arts and crafts, educational activities, swimming, and much more! For details and to register, please visit museoparc.ca/activities-and-events/summer-camps.

Rideau Hall’s Winter Celebration - Feb. 1
Experience the magic of winter at Rideau Hall with your family and friends during a Winter Celebration on February 1, 2025, from 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m. An afternoon of free outdoor activities, captivating performances and more than a few surprises will delight young and old alike. Explore the snow-clad grounds of Rideau Hall and discover winter games from all over the world. You can even lace up your skates on Canada’s oldest outdoor skating rink! Take your best photos against the enchanting backdrop of the Governor General’s official residence, or warm up with a tour inside. All activities are free, but visitors are encouraged to pay it forward by bringing gently used articles of winter clothing for the Snowsuit Fund. Walking and public transportation are the best ways to get to Rideau Hall (1 Sussex Drive). A free Winterlude shuttle bus will be running in a loop from downtown to Rideau Hall, with the last bus departing Rideau Hall at 4:30 pm. Presented in partnership with Winterlude and the National Capital Commission. This is a free event. For details, please visit canada.ca.
For the first time, the Vanier Museopark will be taking part in Winterlude activities on Sundays, February 2 and 9. There will be a booth from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sparks Street, between Bank and O'Connor streets. Celebrate the joys of winter at their booth, where they will be demonstrating tapping, a crucial step in the production of maple syrup. You can also explore a selection of unique artifacts related to this ancestral practice. They will also present a story around a campfire.
Special Roundtable Discussion in Celebration of Black History Month - Feb. 13
In honour of Black History Month, Ottawa-Vanier MP Mona Fortier is hosting a special roundtable discussion in collaboration with Burundi We Want on February 13, from 2 to 4 pm, at The Rideau Community Hub, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard. This gathering aims to foster meaningful dialogue and share insights into the rich history and invaluable contributions of Black communities. All African communities in Ottawa-Vanier are invited. This event provides an opportunity for community members to come together, celebrate, and engage in important conversations about our shared history and future.
Public and family skating at St. Laurent Complex
Drop-in public skating takes place Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays at the St. Laurent Complex. Drop-in family skating takes place Sunday afternoons. For details and the schedule, please visit ottawa.ca.
Rideau Hall rink schedule
Members of the public are invited to lace up their skates and enjoy the timeless wonder of the Rideau Hall skating rink this winter season. Tucked away on the grounds of Rideau Hall, the skating rink has hosted generations of skaters and shaped the culture of winter sports in Canada. Bundle up and come have some fun! The Winter Pavilion, a restored heritage building, is available for visitors to warm up and lace up their skates. The public is invited to visit the skating rink for free during the following hours:
January 10 to March 2, 2025 (weather permitting)
- Monday – Friday, 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Last entry at 7:45 p.m.
- Saturday – Sunday, 12:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Last entry at 7:45 p.m.
Full details are available on the Rideau Hall skating rink page.
Outdoor Rinks in and near Rideau-Rockcliffe
Volunteers in many Rideau-Rockcliffe communities have been hard at work preparing local outdoor rinks. Before you go, check the status of the ice on the City's Outdoor rinks page.
- New Edinburgh Park, 203 Stanley Avenue
- Lindenlea Park, 15 Rockcliffe Way
- Village Green in the Rockcliffe Park community, 270 Springfield Road
- Manor Park, 100 Braemar Street
- Eugène Martineau Park in Wateridge Village, 710 Mikinak Road
- St. Paul's Park in the Overbrook community, 469 Donald Street
- Overbrook Park, 33 Quill Street
- Dr. John Hopps Park in the Carson Grove community, 300 Den Haag Drive
- Cummings Park, 1060 Cummings Avenue
There are also more than 30 City arenas across Ottawa offering drop-in skating sessions – be sure to check the arena’s website for specific opening hours. Children 10 years old and under must be actively supervised by a responsible person 14 years or older at all indoor and outdoor rinks. Children aged 10 and under must wear a CSA-certified hockey helmet at all City indoor arenas. At outdoor rinks, it is highly recommended that all skaters wear a CSA-certified helmet while on the ice. To learn more about helmet safety, visit the Ottawa Public Health website.
City of Ottawa News, Events, Meetings and Engagement Opportunities
- O-Train Lines 2 and 4 will now operate from 6 am to midnight Monday to Friday and from 6:30 am to midnight on Saturdays.
- Existing bus service will continue to run alongside Lines 2 and 4, providing parallel bus service options for customers. This parallel service, which includes B2 buses, Route 97 and Route 99 will be available for customers every day of the week.
- Travel Planner and Transit App have been updated to help customers plan their trips.
- OC Transpo staff will continue to be at key stations during peak hours to provide support on the new Lines 2 and 4.
More info: octranspo.com/transition
Get involved in your city: join a committee or board - Applications due by Feb. 27
- Ottawa Board of Health (1 position)
- Committee of Adjustment (reserves)
- Rogers Centre Ottawa – Board of Directors (1 position and reserves)
- Accessibility Advisory Committee (1 position and reserves)
- Community Safety and Well-being Advisory Committee (2 positions)
- French Language Services Advisory Committee (2 positions, and reserves)
- Planning Advisory Committee (Landscape Architect position)
These volunteer positions are opportunities for qualified residents to provide their expertise, knowledge and lived experience to advise on the City’s work. Applications must be submitted by Thursday, February 27, 2025 at 4:30 pm. For more information or to submit your application, visit the Join a committee or board page. A virtual question and answer session will be held on Thursday, February 6, at 6 pm as part of this mid-term recruitment drive. The information session recording will be available on YouTube after February 6. It will include a brief overview of the recruitment process and the steps to apply. It will also include questions from participants and the answers provided by recruitment staff. Email [email protected] or call 613-580-2424, ext. 28136, for more information.
Administrative Penalty System Hearing Officers – paid, part-time appointments: A concurrent recruitment drive for Administrative Penalty System Hearing Officer is also ongoing. These adjudicator positions are paid, part-time appointments. Visit Become a Hearing Officer on ottawa.ca.to access the online application and more information – including submission deadlines.
Cold weather, warm pipes. Top tips to keep your pipes flowing.
With fluctuating temperatures and the potential for prolonged cold spells, frozen water pipes can become a concern for some households. As frost penetrates deeper into the ground, it can cover water lines – the underground pipes connecting your home’s plumbing to the City’s watermain – in a frozen block. For tips on how you can protect water service pipes on your property, please visit ottawa.ca.
Batteries: You can help extinguish the hazard
Did you know? Batteries are a leading cause of fires in waste facilities. They are known to start fires in collection trucks and at processing plants. No battery belongs in the garbage – regardless of size or shape – and you can help keep waste collection and processing employees and facilities safe by keeping batteries out of bins. Extinguish the hazard by finding safe disposal options for batteries and other household hazardous waste at Ottawa.ca/WasteExplorer. You can also download the Ottawa Collection Calendar mobile app for Apple and Android devices.
Your Ideas in Print – The 2025 Awesome Authors Contest is Now Open!
From now until February 28, budding Ottawa writers between the ages of 9 and 18 have the incredible opportunity to enter the 2025 Awesome Authors contest organized by the Ottawa Public Library. Entries are accepted in the following categories: short story, poetry, comic, nouvelle, poésie, and bande dessinée. For the past several years, OPL has added a special touch to the contest with the “book cover” category, which gives youth free rein to illustrate the cover of the anthology of winning entries. For those who are passionate about drawing and illustration, the “book cover” category is an opportunity to showcase their hidden talent. As in previous years, the contest judges—Catherine Austen, Apollo the Child, Amelinda Bérubé, Pierre-Luc Bélanger and Éric Péladeau—will be hosting writing workshops where participants can gain valuable insights into the fundamentals of writing and explore various literary genres. Workshops will be held online and at OPL branches. For more information about the Awesome Authors contest, criteria and other details, visit the Awesome Authors youth writing contest web page.
OCDSB Kindergarten Registration is Open
If your child is turning 4 in 2025, it's time to think about registering for kindergarten! The Ottawa-Carleton District School Board has elementary schools across Ottawa and is holding Kindergarten Information Nights for parents and caregivers to learn more. For more information and to register, please visit ocdsb.ca/kindergarten or contact your local OCDSB school.
Launch of the City's Tree Dedication Program
The Tree Dedication Program, formerly known as the Commemorative Tree Program, is now accepting requests through an online application form. The expanded program now features two streams: Personal Dedications and Community Dedications. With two streams of dedications, the program provides the opportunity to recognize a wider range of events, milestones and accomplishments. Costs include the supply and installation of the tree, watering for three years, a tree tag, and a plaque for Community Dedications. Visit ottawa.ca/treededication for details.
Planning Primer Courses - Jan. 28 & 30, Feb. 5 & 12
- English session: Jan. 28 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm on Zoom. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/9WVXbKBRRK2DdsHqrVGwEw
- English session: Jan. 30 from 6 to 8 pm on Zoom. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/DvEJ5nURTd6ViMcAmeMGFg
- French session: Feb. 5 from 6 to 8 pm on Zoom. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/Hl3YDP_mSCCbJU-umtC4aQ
- French session: Feb. 12 from 1:30 to 3:30 pm on Zoom. Register here: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/8u_xM5sCQyKbIDaTMJ4Gew
Winterlude - Jan. 31 to Feb. 17
- Street Closure: 12-4 pm between Bronson Ave. and Bell St. N.
- 12:55 pm: Guest Arrival
- 1:00 pm: Lion and Dragon Dances to Welcome the New Year
- 1:10 pm: Speeches by Distinguished Guests
- 1:30 pm: New Year Blessing Ceremony
- 1:45 pm: Cultural Performances and Parade
- 3:00 pm: God of Fortune Blessings visiting Chinatown businesses
Community Safety and Well-Being funding opportunities - deadline to apply Feb. 7
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Gender-Based Violence and Violence Against Women Service Coordination - $100,000
This funding will allow an eligible not-for-profit community organization to hire a coordinator to develop and implement the Gender-Based Violence and Violence Against Women action plan based on 2023 asset mapping study results, 2024 GBV forum recommendations, and community input. This is a one-year grant with the possibility of extension.
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Tax Clinic Coordination - $150,000
This funding will be allocated to an eligible not-for-profit community organization to hire a coordinator dedicated to increasing the number of low-income individuals and families who complete their taxes, improve tax clinic coordination, strengthen partnerships with the non-profit and private sector, and advance advocacy efforts with the provincial and federal governments to reduce barriers to tax filing. This is a one-time non-renewable funding opportunity.
Community Economic Development Funding Program - Applications due by Feb. 7
The City's annual Community Economic Development (CED) Funding Program provides financial support to selected projects that are anticipated to result in:
- Resilient job creation (continuing beyond the funding period)
- Business enterprise creation (for-profits and/or social enterprises).
The program endeavours to positively impact historically under-represented segments of the Ottawa population (e.g. residents of lower income neighbourhoods, youth, older adults, rural residents, new immigrants, racialized and indigenous populations, people with disabilities, etc.) through financial support to non-profit agencies for new, or expanded, projects that assist targeted residents to overcome identified obstacles to the creation of new jobs and/or new enterprises. Projects should indicate how the applicant non-profit agency will increase its capacity to support the economic objectives of targeted beneficiaries beyond the funding period. Projects should indicate how targeted populations will be enabled to overcome their identified obstacles. The CED Funding Program awards a total of up to $285,000 per year, distributed among the proposals that are selected by a jury panel of reviewers. While proposals may have inherent merits, funds are awarded only among the top-ranked projects, until the annual funding maximum is reached. Completed applications and submission packages must be received in electronic form by email no later than Friday, February 7, 2025 at 4 pm. For more information, please visit ottawa.ca or email [email protected].
Governor General’s Foot Guards Youth Awards - Applications due by Feb. 9
The Governor General’s Foot Guards (GGFG) believe in the potential of Ottawa/Outaouis youth. This year, in cooperation with like-minded civic partners, the GGFG are delighted to present four $2,500 awards to youth whose ability, hard work, and perseverance merits special recognition. They seek to celebrate and incentivize high-performing young people in the Ottawa region as they pursue educational advancement or skills development. Application criteria is available on the GGFG website. Email submissions to [email protected] are requested no later than February 9, 2025.
On February 14, 2025 enjoy an exceptional evening in support of Unique FM, Ottawa’s only French-speaking community radio station. This first edition promises you an unforgettable experience with:
- An intimate show by artist Yao.
- A 5-course gourmet meal, specially designed for the occasion.
- A tasting of carefully selected wines.
- Exclusive gifts for guests.
Reserve your tickets now: unique-fm.s1.yapla.com/fr/event-61958
Family Day Skating Party - Feb. 17
Public engagement and communication review - Survey is available until Feb. 21
The City of Ottawa is refreshing its communications to better serve you. Whether it's through social media, email updates, or public engagement opportunities, staff want to hear your feedback on how they communicate with you. Complete a short survey about how you prefer to hear from us. The survey will close on Friday, February 21. Your feedback will help shape our efforts to improve communications from our central social media channels and newsletters. To complete the survey, please visit Engage Ottawa.
- Dynamic speakers sharing powerful stories and insights
- Educational exhibits showcasing the rich history and contributions of Black women
- Cultural performances celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of the Black community
Spaces are limited, so be sure to register early to secure your spot: www.eventbrite.ca/e/1210056233769?aff=oddtdtcreator
Community partnership major capital program - Grant applications due March 1
The City of Ottawa's Community Partnership Major Capital Program is an initiative to implement major capital improvements and additions to facilities related to parks and recreation on a cost-sharing basis between the City and community groups. The project may relate to an asset that is owned by the City, or operated by a community partner who delivers service on behalf of the City or assists the City in the delivery of programs and services. The funding program applies to major capital programs for new facilities, renovations and expansions. It will only apply to fixed assets. It will not fund other components such as furniture, equipment, feasibility or fundraising studies.
What projects are eligible?
- Major capital projects for new facilities, renovations and expansions that result in the development of fixed assets relating to parks and recreation located within the City of Ottawa.
- The project may relate to an asset that is owned by the City, or operated by a community partner who delivers service on behalf of the City or assists the City in the delivery of programs and services.
The deadline date for submitting proposals is March 1 at 3 pm. For more information and to apply, please visit ottawa.ca.
Applications are now open for the 2025 Paint It Up! program - Deadlines: March 3 & April 2
Those interested in participating will need to keep two deadlines in mind:
- You must submit your location for approval by Monday, March 3.
- The complete application will need to be submitted by Wednesday, April 2.
Young At Art - Submissions due by March 6
Calling all young visual artists in Ottawa: step into the spotlight and let your art shine! The City of Ottawa's Young at Art program is a professionally assessed art exhibition that brings the work of talented young visual artists between the ages of 12 and 19 to local art galleries. Selected works are displayed and are eligible for several awards. Submit your artwork by 1 pm on March 6, 2025.
Vacant Unit Tax property status declarations - due March 20, 2025
Homeowners are reminded to complete their Vacant Unit Tax (VUT) declaration for each residential property they own before the March 20 deadline. A $250 late fee will be applied to declarations submitted after the deadline.
To complete the declaration, visit ottawa.ca/vut:
- Click “Submit your declaration now”
- Log on with roll number and access code (found on last year’s property tax bill or information notices that were sent by email or Canada Post)
Residents registered with My SeviceOttawa can go directly to the declaration from their property tax account. Notices will be sent to property owners in January, with email delivery used whenever possible.
Alternate and accessible declaration options available.
By phone (Monday to Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm):
- Call 613-580-2444 and select option 3 where an agent will help complete your declaration over the phone
- Call 613-580-2400 to contact the City using Canada Video Relay Service
- In-person: Visit any City Client Service Centre. Visit ottawa.ca/csc for locations and business hours.
- Pharmacies and your health care provider: Many local pharmacies have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine and annual flu vaccine and are offering them to eligible individuals. Visit your nearest pharmacy today or speak to your health care provider.
- OPH Clinics: OPH Community Clinics and Neighbourhood Health and Wellness Hubs are offering the updated COVID-19 and annual flu vaccines for eligible high-risk and priority populations who face barriers to access.
City offers “Play Free Saturdays” for kids and youth in 2025
Children and youth, ages 17 and under, can take part in free drop-in swimming, skating and gym sports at City recreation facilities every Saturday in 2025. These free drop-in programs on Saturdays continue to allow children and youth to participate in City programs and benefit from the associated health and social benefits of these activities. In addition to Play Free Saturdays, the City also offers financial support through the Ottawa Hand in Hand participant subsidy program, to help to make recreation and cultural programming more affordable and accessible for everyone. For details, please visit ottawa.ca.
Winter Maintenance Reporting
There are several ways you can connect with the City to report winter-related maintenance requests and accessibility concerns.
Online: Non-urgent requests, such as those that can wait for the next business day, may be reported on ottawa.ca:
- Winter road maintenance
- Winter sidewalk maintenance
- Gravel Shoulder
- Area Between Road and Sidewalk (Easement)
Phone : No access to the web or need to report a concern that requires immediate attention? Please call 3-1-1 or TTY 613-580-2401.
Canada Video Relay Services (VRS): The City of Ottawa is pleased to provide the Canada Video Relay Service (VRS) for people wishing to contact the City. Callers using VRS are connected with a sign language interpreter who provides real time interpretation for telephone calls. To reach the City of Ottawa through VRS, please dial 613-580-2400.
Winter Updates: To stay up to date on City of Ottawa Winter Operations, please visit ottawa.ca/winter.
Garbage and recycling collection during a winter storm
Please place garbage containers and bags and recycling bins at the curb. Do not place them behind or on top of snow banks.
Emergency Services News
2024 Intimate Partner Violence preliminary statistics show a consistent increase
The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) is releasing preliminary annual statistics for 2024 showing that 6,636 Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) incidents were reported resulting in 3,355 charges laid that year. Further charges may be laid as some of the incidents reported in 2024 remain under investigation. On average, the Service receives 18 calls for service related to IPV incidents per day. In 2023, there were 6,547 incidents of Intimate Partner Violence reported, and 3,820 charges laid. For the full report, please visit ottawapolice.ca.
Make the Right Call
www.ottawapolice.ca/en/who-we-are/contact-us.aspx
When to Call 911:
- For crimes in progress and life-threatening emergencies
- You witness a dangerous or impaired driver
- There is a vehicle collision with injuries
- Fire or medical emergency
When to call 613-236-1222. Please listen to the prompts.
- Residential or commercial break and enter
- Missing person
- Suspicious activity or vehicle (drug trafficking in progress)
- Stolen vehicle
- Assault where no medical attention is required
- Animal abuse
- Vehicle collision where no injuries are reported
When to call and make a report with the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit 613-236-1222, extension 7300. Open seven days a week between 10 am and 8:45 pm.
- Alcohol and drug use in public (for example, in city parks)
- Reporting to the police after the fact – an incident has occurred, but no one has remained on scene
- Disputes or harassment (for example, argument with neighbour, stalking, fear for non-immediate safety)
- Sexual assault reported, where there is no longer evidence
When the Ottawa Police Reporting Unit (PRU) is closed between the hours of 9 pm and 10 am, an automated attendant will provide you with options on how to redirect your call.
When to make a report using the Ottawa Police online system at ottawapolice.ca/onlinereporting:
- Theft (excluding theft of passports or other citizenship documents)
- Lost Property (with a visible serial number or distinct marking such as a custom engraving)
- This does not include: cellphones, credit and debit cards; please phone your banking institution or cellphone company
- Mischief/Damage to Property
- Theft from Vehicle
- Traffic Complaints
- Drug Complaints (drug trafficking information)
- Fraud Complaints
- Hate-Motivated Incidents
- Add information to an existing report
Crime Stoppers: If you have information about a crime but want to remain completely anonymous, you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit a tip online at crimestoppers.ca.