Helping the Unhoused, One Backpack at a Time
Helping the Unhoused, One Backpack at a Time
Who We Are
Help Our Homeless is a volunteer-driven community initiative dedicated to helping individuals experiencing homelessness in Eastern Ontario.
We believe that everyone deserves dignity, compassion, and hope — no matter their circumstances.
Our story began with a simple idea: What if we could meet people where they are, with exactly what they need, in the moment they need it?
From that idea grew our Backpack Program — providing backpacks filled with life’s essentials: food, warm clothing, hygiene products, blankets, and other survival items.
We’re not a large organization with big budgets or government funding. We’re a grassroots movement made up of caring volunteers, donors, and local partners who simply refuse to stand by while people in our own communities are cold, hungry, and without support.
What We Do
01.
— 🎒 The Backpack Program
We assemble and distribute backpacks filled with essential supplies — including food, hygiene products, warm clothing, blankets, and other survival gear — directly to people living without shelter.
02.
— 
Food & Snack Assistance
We provide non-perishable food items to help ease hunger and give people the nourishment they need to get through the day.
03.
— 🧥 Seasonal Essentials
From sleeping bags and blankets in the winter to lighter clothing and sun protection in the summer, we help people prepare for Canada’s changing seasons.
04.
— 🏕 Emergency Shelter Items
We provide tents, tarps, and other emergency shelter items to give protection from harsh weather conditions.
05.
— 💙 Community Connection
We work alongside volunteers, donors, and local organizations to create a caring network of support — reminding people they are seen, valued, and not forgotten.
06.
— 📢 Advocacy & Awareness
We share stories, raise awareness, and encourage the community to take action, building understanding and compassion for our unhoused neighbours.
Backpacks Gathered, Filled, and Handed Out
Discover the number of backpacks we have successfully gathered, filled, and handed out to support our community.
2021 ~ Now
2011 ~ 2020
~ 2010
Ways to Help
There are many ways you can make a difference for our unhoused neighbours in Eastern Ontario.
Whether you give your time, resources, or financial support, every act of kindness counts.
Your financial gift allows us to purchase food, clothing, hygiene products, and shelter items exactly when they’re needed most.
Backpacks, blankets, sleeping bags, tents, hygiene products, and non-perishable food are always in demand.
We’ll make sure your donated items go directly to those who need them.
Share our mission on social media, talk to friends and family, and encourage others to get involved.
Awareness is a powerful first step toward change.
Businesses, schools, and community groups can organize drives, fundraising events, or sponsorships to support our programs.
Together, we can reach more people, more effectively.
Accepted Donation Items
We welcome donations of new or gently used items that can directly help our unhoused neighbours stay warm, fed, and cared for.
Here’s what we currently accept:
Clothing & Warmth
- Winter coats, jackets, and sweaters
- Gloves, mittens, hats, and scarves
- Socks (new only)
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Thermal underlayers
Personal Care & Hygiene
- Winter coats, jackets, and sweaters
- Gloves, mittens, hats, and scarves
- Socks (new only)
- Blankets and sleeping bags
- Thermal underlayers
Food & Beverages
- Non-perishable canned goods (soups, stews, beans, tuna, etc.)
- Peanut butter, granola bars, crackers
- Instant noodles, oatmeal packets
- Bottled water and juice boxes
- Small packs of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
Shelter & Outdoor Gear
- Tarps, and ground mats
- Backpacks and duffle bags
- Flashlights and batteries
- Ponchos and rain gear
- Small camping stoves and fuel cartridges
Miscellaneous Essentials
- Reusable shopping bags
- Can openers and utensils
- Travel mugs or water bottles
- Garbage bags (large and small)
Information & Safety Kits
- First aid kits
- Whistles for personal safety
- Notebooks and pens
Drop Off Here
Williamsburg
12698 County Road 18, Williamsburg, ON K0C 2H0
Ottawa
35 Antares Drive, Unit B, Nepean, ON K2E 8B1
