Supporting Eritrean Lives in Ottawa
Join Us in Making a Difference
Support the Mehari Centre's mission to uplift and integrate the Eritrean community through targeted programs and services.
Our Journey and Purpose
The Mehari Centre was established in 2022 to address the pressing needs of Eritrean newcomers in Ottawa. Recognizing the challenges faced by the community, we are committed to providing culturally and linguistically appropriate support. Our mission is to create a nurturing environment where Eritreans can access essential services, connect with each other, and thrive in their new home. Our story began with a vision to fill the service gaps and has grown into a comprehensive support system driven by community needs and aspirations.
The Genesis of Mehari Centre
The Mehari Centre was founded to address the systemic service gaps affecting Eritrean newcomers in Ottawa. As a community-driven nonprofit, we provide culturally and linguistically appropriate programs to foster a strong, healthy, and connected Eritrean community. Led by an Executive Director and a dedicated volunteer Board, we focus on solutions rooted in community needs.
Over the past decade, more than 60,000 Eritreans have settled in Canada, yet many still struggle with accessing essential services. Limited Tigrinya-speaking supports make it difficult to find settlement resources, secure housing, access food assistance, and navigate mental health services. The Mehari Centre fills these gaps by offering tailored programs and advocating for increased access to services.
Our Settlement Services Focus
Financial & Employment Support
We offer tax clinics, job search assistance, and financial literacy programs to support Eritreans in achieving economic stability.
Housing & Tenant Rights
Our team provides guidance on securing safe housing and understanding tenant rights to ensure a stable living environment.
Mental Wellness & Health Promotion
Through workshops and resources, we promote emotional well-being and mental health awareness within the community.
Cultural Adaptation
We assist newcomers in navigating cultural differences and understanding Canadian laws to ease their integration process.
Education & Youth Support
Our school readiness programs and family support initiatives prepare young Eritreans for academic success.
Community Engagement
We facilitate orientation sessions and connect individuals to local services, fostering a sense of belonging and community involvement.
Children’s Program
Weekly interactive programs for children under 10, focused on supporting social/emotional development and enhancing school readiness
Women’s Circle
A weekly gathering providing a safe space for women to connect, share, reflect, and empower each other.
One-on-One Support
Personalized support for women and men facing isolation, family struggles, or other challenges.
Mission
Our Mission
Mehari Centre’s mission is to promote and improve the wellbeing of Eritreans living in Ottawa through culturally and linguistically anchored programs and services that are grounded in evidence and community. Mehari Centre provides a safe and welcoming environment where Eritreans will be affirmed, equipped with needed information and resources, provided with space to heal and to connect with each other and the greater community.
Vission
Our Vision
The Mehari Centre’s vision is a holistic, healthy, flourishing, and harmonious Eritrean community in Ottawa.
Support Our Mission
Your generosity fuels our programs and services, helping us bridge gaps and create opportunities for Eritrean newcomers in Ottawa. By donating to Mehari Centre, you contribute to initiatives that promote cultural understanding, provide essential resources, and supporting individuals to achieve their potential. Join us in making a lasting impact on the lives of many by supporting our cause today.
Meet Our Dedicated Team
Our team is committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment. With diverse backgrounds and expertise, we work together to serve our community effectively.
Yodit Girmay
Executive Director
Sara Gebre-Giorgis
Chair of the Board
Yosief Kidane
Board Member
Sabrina Teklab
Board Member
Alem Berhane
Board Member
Hanna Adhanom
Board Member
Fikadu Hadgu
Board Member
Reach Out to Us
Address
1547 Merivale Road, Unit 240, Nepean, Ontario, K2G 4V3.
Phone
(613) 882-4274
Join Us in Making a Difference
Your support is vital in supporting the Eritrean community in Ottawa. Whether you choose to donate, volunteer, or spread the word, every action counts. Together, we can create a stronger, more connected community. Join us today and be a part of this transformative journey.