Options Bytown provides a permanent home and support services for those people who need help to live independently. We operate two apartment complexes that house approximately 120 tenants.

Options Bytown also operates a number of resource centres in Ottawa Community Housing complexes where a  variety of support services
are offered to the communities.   Such services  include prevention of eviction, crisis intervention, referrals to various community resources, social and recreational activities, computer training, health and nutrition counselling and much more.

Options Bytown is governed by  a volunteer Board of Directors. The board manages a number of policy committees including finance, fundraising, new development, and human resources. 

Options Bytown is funded by the City of Ottawa, the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada.

History

In 1987, a coalition of concerned Ottawa residents  and community groups joined forces to address the growing homelessness problem in response to the United Nations proclamation of  the International Year of Shelter for the Homeless.

Options Bytown was established as a more desirable alternative to emergency shelter accommodation.  It was recognized that permanent supportive housing is a better way to meet the needs of those with a history of homelessness.

Options Bytown’s first building opened its doors in the heart of Ottawa’s Byward Market in 1989. The building houses approximately 65 tenants on five floors. In 1992, a new building was inaugurated on Gilmour Street, in Centretown. This building is home to another 60 tenants.