Bissell Centre

Through our vision to eliminate poverty in our community, and guided by a passionate concern for the dignity and well being of each individual, Bissell Centre’s work is based on building relationships, hope and trust. Our mission is to work with others to empower people to move from poverty to prosperity. We enable people to meet their own basic daily needs, participate in community, have sustainable livelihoods, feel hope for the future and make plans for a prosperous life.

Recent Blog Posts

Workforce Development: A Hidden Gem for Recruiting in the Manufacturing Industry
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If you ask Myles Richter if he has a secret weapon for recruiting in manufacturing for his frontline and entry-level positions with Lux Architectural Products, he’ll immediately point to recruitment efforts from Workforce Development. “For us this program has been a hidden gem that we have shared...
Published at Bissell Centre
Where Donated Goods Go at Bissell Centre
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Ever wonder what kind of impact your donated goods make on your community? Documentaries like Minimalism: Less is Now and The True Cost highlighted a few problematic practices from some organizations that rely on clothing donations. There can be an immense impact on the environment from discarded...
Published at Bissell Centre
Advantages to Recruiting Construction Labour with Workforce Development
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When Emcee Construction began renovating our Community Space, it wasn’t necessarily looking to fill in some frontline and entry-level roles on the construction team. But after learning about the Workforce Development program, Construction Manager Corey Wong immediately saw advantages to partnerin...
Published at Bissell Centre
Filling Entry-Level Warehouse Vacancies with Workforce Development
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To fill his frontline and entry-level positions, LD Filtration’s Vice-President and Partner Dakota Ward typically receives resumes and applications from the usual job websites – but had never received an application from a program like Workforce Development. He explains that after receiving an ap...
Published at Bissell Centre
Boyle Street and Bissell Centre Build a Longer Table at Friendship Feast
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There’s an old saying that goes, “when you have more than you need, build a longer table.” Boyle Street Community Services and Bissell Centre are coming together to do just that at this year’s Friendship Feast. This year’s Friendship Feast is on October 9, 2023, at Boyle Plaza (9538 103A Ave). Bo...
Published at Bissell Centre
Introducing the New Indigenous Engagement Program
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The new Indigenous Engagement program is a spark of connection, igniting a deep sense of belonging through the customs that define Indigenous identities. Together, we remember the past, learn from our ancestors’ wisdom, and embrace it all with open hearts. In this shared journey, we strengt...
Published at Bissell Centre
Reclaiming National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
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For Sarah Higgins, Director of Indigenous Engagement at Bissell Centre, the word that comes most to mind when she thinks about National Day for Truth and Reconciliation is ceremony. She explains how every Indigenous member of Bissell Centre’s staff and community has a direct correlation to or has...
Published at Bissell Centre
When the Community Kokum needed help, Community Bridge was there
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Photo courtesy of Billy Hudy via Unsplash. Kari’s eviction notice came swiftly. She had a month to find new accommodations for her and her adult sons with special needs. Unsure how she could find a place on such short notice, Kari considered all her options, from living in a storage unit to even ...
Published at Bissell Centre
Red Shoe Walk: Why is no one talking about FASD?
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Ten years ago, RJ Formanek wanted to start a conversation about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). As an adult who has FASD, he thought educating people and showcasing his diverse skillset and reliance was important. And the Red Shoe Walk was born. RJ figured he should stand out – red shoes ...
Published at Bissell Centre
Born Broken: A book just released by individuals from our FASS program!
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Individuals connected to our Fetal Alcohol Spectrum of Services (FASS) program contributed to a book about the challenges and realities of navigating life with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Under the guidance of Jared Epp, Carleton University PhD candidate and former housing support wor...
Published at Bissell Centre