From Uncertainty to Stability – A Mother’s Journey Toward Hope
A single mother reached out to Kids Kottage in an ongoing state of crisis. She had no permanent housing and had been sleeping in her car or temporarily staying with friends for over six months. Compounding these challenges were significant mental health struggles, including persistent thoughts of hopelessness. She was the primary caregiver to her young daughter with unique developmental needs who required attentive, consistent supervision and care.

The uncertainty of their living situation, combined with caregiving demands and health issues, left her feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Kids Kottage was able to care for her child while supporting her with accessing basic needs such as food, guidance on housing applications, access to temporary emergency accommodations, and support navigating developmental services for her daughter.

“I was really scared and didn’t know where to turn. Knowing my daughter was safe and happy at Kids Kottage helped me breathe. She was cared for like family, and I could tell she felt loved. Thank you for protecting her and giving her joy when everything felt so hard.”

Fleeing Violence – A Safe Place
A mom and her children were staying in a shelter after fleeing domestic violence. With her children safely cared for at Kids Kottage Foundation, she was able to focus on making their transition to a new home as smooth as possible. She packed their belongings, moved everything from the shelter, retrieved what was left at their previous home, and settled into their new space, all with peace of mind knowing her children were safe.

“My children just loved their sleepover at Kids Kottage, they’ve been talking about how much fun they had every day since they were there…

…I am so grateful for making them feel safe. They had so much fun opening up all of the gifts they were sent
home with too.”

When Illness Strikes – A Family Finds Relief
One family, including two parents and their 21-month-old child were overwhelmed by serious health issues. The mother had recently undergone surgery, and the father was critically ill, leaving him unable to manage household tasks or care for their toddler. The family was also facing food insecurity and increasing stress, making it impossible for them to cope without support.

“We’ve had so many hard days, but Kids Kottage gave us space to breathe. Our child was so well cared for, and we knew she was safe and happy. It helped us get through the worst times. We couldn’t have done it without this support.”

A Father’s Journey
Finding Strength Through Support A single father, new to Canada and raising three children – one with additional developmental needs – was facing overwhelming challenges. Recently separated from a harmful relationship, he was struggling to meet his family’s basic needs. There was little food at home, the children lacked clothing and school supplies, and their emotional and behavioral needs were becoming harder to manage.

“When I came here, I felt lost. I didn’t know how to take care of everything on my own. But Kids Kottage gave me support, not just for my kids, but for me too. My children were happy, and I got help with food, clothes, and finding services. It gave me strength to keep going.”

A Young Mother’s Path to Independence
At just 21 years old, a mom was raising three children under the age of four. She was newly separated from her partner and facing mental health concerns. She lacked food, essential items, and time to care for herself.

“I didn’t have anyone to help me before. Kids Kottage made me feel like I wasn’t alone. They looked after my kids so I could take care of myself for once. Now I’m getting help to learn new things and plan for my future. It means everything to me.”