On Canada Day – July 1, 2026, the City of Ottawa witnessed a record-breaking 118 mm of rain. Following the heavy downpour our emergency shelter located in the Bay Ward (Ward 7) has unfortunately flooded after the storm.

The flooding affected the main entrance, kitchen area, basement and our outdoor garden. The flooding also caused damage to personal protective equipment, some donations, mattresses, paperwork and some personal belongings of residents. Currently, the damages are adding up to a few thousand dollars, and Cornerstone is working with the City of Ottawa to replace items as best we can.

Residents were made to remain in their units while staff abated the flooding to reduce safety risks. The elevator was shut down for a couple of hours, and residents with mobility challenges were temporarily unable to access their rooms. Temporary beds were created on the main floor for these women.

While flood water in the main areas has been cleaned, we are currently assessing and documenting the full extent of the damage to our property.

We are grateful to our staff and the City of Ottawa for their prompt response in supporting Cornerstone during this difficult time. We would appreciate financial support from our community to help replace essential equipment and restore affected spaces as quickly as possible.

Donations and support can be made through our website at www.cornerstonewomen.ca.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Amber Bramer

Director of Development and Communications

media@cornerstonewomen.ca

314 Booth Street, Ottawa, K1R 7K2

T: 613-254-6584 Ext.503| C: 613-878-33