Know a charity in need? Here's how CAA can help this November

Across Ontario, small organizations do vital work quietly, and mostly without recognition. 

Although funding for these grassroots charities may waver, the need persists. That's why November brings charitable giving into focus, highlighting the organizations that uplift our communities.  

Two dates anchor November for Canadian givers: November 15 marks National Philanthropy Day, recognizing the people who sustain charitable work. Two weeks later, Giving Tuesday channels that recognition into action, mobilizing billions globally for causes that make a difference.  

That timing is no accident. When temperatures drop, demand rises—for food, shelter, and belonging. These are the moments when charitable organizations step up the most, filling gaps to protect our most vulnerable populations. November is a time to recognize that work and consider how your support can make a real difference. 

Here are six organizations across North and East Ontario who are making grassroots contributions in their communities—highlighted here not because they are the only ones, but because their stories are worth knowing. 

Northeastern Ontario Multicultural Centre 

Located in North Bay, the Northeastern Ontario Multicultural Centre offers immigrant settlement services to newcomers and fosters inclusion in the community. In addition to providing information and connections to vital services, the organization holds events for clients and community members. CAA's contribution brought about one such event—a movie screening for families.  

"The popcorn machine, pull-down screen and projector were all purchased with CAA funds. At this event, over 30 people attended, including several families. There was plenty of time before the screening to chat, connect and practice English skills.  Sharing a film and snacks was a perfect way to enjoy time together," said Deborah Robertson, executive director of the Northeastern Ontario Multicultural Centre.  

Thunder Bay Multicultural Association 

Thunder Bay Multicultural Association is a newcomer program that aims to welcome immigrants and combat racism. They provide services and resources to foster a multicultural Canadian society in Thunder Bay. The charity also runs youth-focused programs to prevent isolation and encourage community involvement. 

With CAA’s support, Thunder Bay Multicultural Association expanded its summer youth camp programming to include a broader age range, allowing families to participate together.  

"We held events on Refugee Day with a picnic and game stations for the whole family. It was a roaring success. Music, dancing and impromptu games of basketball and soccer ensued. Newcomers had a chance to meet other families with children the same ages as theirs as well as children being able to meet others that they might be going to school with,” said Cathy Woodbeck, executive director of Thunder Bay Multicultural Association.  

“Part of the donation went to help at-risk and in-need youth and families who were struggling financially. We had grocery gift cards and fresh fruit and vegetables in garden boxes to distribute," Woodbeck said. "CAA also provided tickets to Wake the Giant, a youth-empowering concert held at the waterfront. Our youth went as a group and had a wonderful time.” 

Matthew House Ottawa 

For refugees with nowhere to turn, Matthew House Ottawa helps Canada feel like home. By providing food, shelter and refugee settlement assistance, Matthew House’s goal is to ensure that refugees have a safe, dignified place to live in their new country.  

Matthew House runs nine reception houses and seventeen transition houses. The organization also operates a furniture bank, giving new life to gently used household items. So rather than moving into an empty space, clients start over with something, thanks to Matthew House.  

"Matthew House Ottawa is grateful to CAA North & East Ontario for its generous contribution and commitment to supporting our work. This funding helped us provide essential support to newly arrived refugee claimants as they navigated the challenges of settling into a new country,” said Shemi Adeoye, manager of operations and engagement with Matthew House.  

“We sincerely thank CAA North & East Ontario for helping us make a meaningful difference in the lives of those seeking safety and a fresh start.” 

North Bay Food Bank 

When the cost of living soars, it gets harder to put food on the table. That's where North Bay Food Bank comes in: a fixed-address hamper program that serves clients about once a month. That food can last a family several days, easing the financial pressure when people need it most.  

"As a food bank that does not receive government [funding], relying solely on the generosity of our community, we are grateful for the support we receive through monetary donations and food drives,” said Debbie Marson, the food bank’s executive director.  

“On average, we provide for 35 households each three-hour client session, 4 days a week. CAA North & East Ontario’s donation will help keep our shelves stocked and allow us to continue providing for our neighbours in need. It truly takes a community, and we are thankful that CAA North & East Ontario is a part of ours.” 

Pregnancy Care Centre & Infant Food Bank 

 Raising young children brings unique challenges—especially if unexpected life crises strike. Sudbury’s Pregnancy Care Centre & Infant Food Bank allows families to access infant-specific essentials. Families can also take home milk and bread twice per month, in addition to clothing, shoes, outerwear, blankets, towels, toys, books and more.  

The organization also runs an “Earn While You Learn” program for pregnancy and parenting education, where participants can earn grocery store gift cards and invest in their skills at the same time, said Mandy Radey, assistant manager.  

"Community support is essential to our Infant Food Bank because it allows us to provide our families with diapers, wipes, formula, baby food and other basic necessities for their little ones. Every donation makes a direct difference, helping ensure that babies and young children in our community have the essentials they need to grow and thrive,” she said.  

The Pregnancy Care Centre & Infant Food Bank does not receive government funding, so community contributions make all the difference.  

Ottawa Humane Society 

"Sometimes a bowl of kibble is all it takes to keep a pet in the home where they are loved,” said Tina Labelle, manager for major giving and campaign at the Ottawa Humane Society (OHS). When life happens, whether that’s rising costs, an unexpected expense, or a sudden change, a little help can make all the difference for an animal and the humans who love them. 

On top of their adoption program, the Ottawa Humane Society runs a pet food bank, distributing over 16,000 pounds of pet food to families in need. The OHS added that “many families relying on the OHS's pet food bank say they would feed their pet before they feed themselves.” 

CAA’s contribution helps pets and people stay together through access to necessities like food and veterinary care.  

KidSport Ottawa 

According to KidSport, cost keeps one in two Canadian kids out of organized sport. But the opportunity to play—rather than sitting on the sidelines—creates a sense of belonging and grows kids' confidence, according to Sara Restani, executive director of KidSport Ontario.  

"KidSport Ottawa works to ensure that financial barriers don’t prevent children from experiencing the benefits of organized sport. Community support like this allows us to help more families with registration costs and give more kids the opportunity to participate, build confidence, develop friendships, and stay connected to their community," she said.  

"We’re incredibly grateful for CAA’s support and investment in making sport more accessible for kids across Ottawa.” 

Could your organization benefit from a Community Action Grant?  

Each year during our Community Action Month, CAA funds a limited number of eligible charities with a one-time $5,000 grant. Grant applications are open from November 2 to November 30, 2026. 

CAA North & East Ontario is interested in initiatives that deal with five key areas: food security, animal welfare, youth access to sport, New Canadians and Indigenous communities. Through grants, partnerships, and community connections, we give these groups the resources to make a greater impact. 

If you think your registered charity is a good fit, apply by November 30, 2026. For more information, including the complete eligibility requirements, head to the Charitable Partnerships landing page.