Carty House Visit and Status for All Campaign

At the beginning of April, I had the chance to visit Carty House here in Ottawa, a Congregation de Notre-Dame (CND) place that provides housing, as well as support with integration for women refugees. Sister Nina Glinski and Sister Clara Nasello told me the history of the house, which was a CND retreat center previously. We met with the manager, Louise, and one of the residents; they told us about the importance of long-term supportive housing for new refugee women. Through Carty house, refugee women can navigate the refugee claimant process, access employment and education, and start to create a life in their new home. They also gain invaluable access to community and care as they navigate a new country and find permanent housing. Being in the house, it is clear how the spirit and charism of the congregation are being lived through the staff and residents at Carty House.

Carty house was established in 2001 by Sister Maureen Killoran, CND, to respond to the underserved needs of female refugee claimants arriving alone in Ottawa. It was named for Sister Mary Carty, CND, (1954-1999), who was known for her sense of justice. I am so grateful to Sisters Nina and Clara for connecting me with this work as I learn more about the Congregation.

Encountering Carty house reminds us of the struggles faced by those who seek refuge in Canada. In the coming weeks, the Prime Minister is meeting with Cabinet ministers to discuss a path to regularization. Many migrants, refugees and temporary residents in Canada are left marginalized and vulnerable due to their lack of permanent residence status. We can remind our elected cabinet officials of this and urge them to act justly on behalf of marginalized migrants and refugees in Canada. This can be done by sending letters, calling, or emailing ministers with your concern or by adding your name to the campaign at statusforall.ca Learn more about the campaign and how to get in touch with cabinet ministers at https://migrantrights.ca/actnow/.