Being a student can be a very stressful time in a person’s life. Balancing school, work, and other obligations is a daunting task and students do need extra help on occasion. The following list of resources can help you during your studies at Algonquin College. Please stop by the Mamidosewin Centre for more information and to speak with someone.
The Mamidosewin Centre is here to help you find housing in Ottawa. We’ve created a collection of useful information and resources for you to consider when moving. If you are planning a move to Ottawa, start your housing search early. Search for areas close to campus, or with quick access to an OC transpo station or transit stop.
Algonquin College Student Residence
algonquincollege.com/residence
Live on campus and reap the benefits! Living in residence is the best way to ensure a successful year at Algonquin College. By living on campus, you can rest assured knowing you will have the opportunity to live independently in a safe, secure, and supportive environment. The residence also presents great opportunities to meet new friends, join clubs, attend social events, join committees, and fully emerge yourself in all that the college has to offer. Click here to learn more about the rates, rooms and application.
Algonquin College Housing & Accommodations Resources
Whether you want to live on-campus or off-campus, at any of our campuses, our Student Housing Coordinator is here to help – from webinars to need-to-know information.
To learn more, click here.
Gignul Housing
gignulhousing.org
Gignul, working in partnership with other Aboriginal organizations, focuses on both short and long term solutions, including supportive shelters to affordable, independent living. Some student single units available. You will need the following documents:
- A completed application form
- A completed consent form
- Proof of Income (OSAP, band funding etc.)
- Proof of Status (Indian status card or Inuit card)
- Proof of enrollment at school (acceptance letter or timetable
- All forms can be picked up at Mamidosewin Centre.
Ontario Landlord and Tenant Board
The role of the Board is to provide information about the Residential Tenancies Act and to resolve disputes between most residential landlords and tenants. The website provides extensive informational brochures, below are a few samples:
Hydro Ottawa
hydroottawa.com/en
If utilities are not included in your rental cost, then the approximate costs are:
- There is a $30 set-up fee.
- Deposit may be required. Costs could range from $50 to $300.
- Monthly fees approximately $30-$75.
- Minimum age for new account set up is 18 years old. Move requests can be done online.
Rental Insurance
Consider purchasing rental insurance to protect your personal belongings (laptop, television, stereo, jewelry, clothes, dvds etc.) in case of fire, theft or water damage. Approximate costs $230/year. Request a free quote online.
SpacesShared
SpacesShared is a virtual platform that allows students looking for safe and affordable home-sharing arrangements to match with older adult hosts. SpacesShared priority is safety and simplicity in finding a match that feels comfortable for you. SpacesShared will support the host and student throughout the duration of the agreement.
Please note that by clicking on the above link you are leaving the Algonquin College website. By using the SpacesShared site, the user accepts that Algonquin College is not liable to student for any issues caused by a host.
Places4Students
Places4Students offers domestic and international students a convenient platform for finding and booking student-friendly housing. Places4Students allows you to browse listings, connect with potential roommates, and connect with landlords.
Please note that by clicking on the above links, you are leaving the Algonquin College website. By using the Places4Students site, the user accepts that Algonquin College is not liable to student for any issues caused by a host.
Customer Service: Monday-Thursday: 9am-7pm EST & Friday: 9am-5pm EST
The Mamidosewin Centre offers many volunteer opportunities for students to gain experience and help out in the community. Below is a list of volunteer opportunities that are recognized by the Co-Curricular Record.
Volunteer Roles
Below are various volunteer positions available with the Mamidosewin Centre:
Indigenous Education Council (IEC) Volunteer: This student would sit on the council and be the student representative for Indigenous students.
Pow-Wow Committee Member: This student would be a member of the committee and take on the task of organizing the Student Pow-Wow.
Indigenous Student Association Group: These students would organize and join the Aboriginal Student groups.
Mamidosewin Mentors: These students are chosen to represent the Mamidosewin Centre and mentor first-year students through their first year at the college.
Event volunteers: These students would be helping out with events held at the Mamidosewin Centre. Duties would include cooking, helping with Elders, and assisting in the set-up and tear down of the events.
What is a Co-Curricular Record?
The Co-Curricular Record (CCR) is a great resource for Algonquin College students to track, record, and print a record of their college-affiliated volunteer and leadership involvement. A Co-Curricular Record is an official non-academic record used to chronicle the activities that students engage in throughout the academic year. Not only will this document be complementary to an academic transcript, but to a resume as well. The transferable skills obtained from volunteering at Algonquin College can contribute to increased employability!
The Volunteer Centre
To learn more about other volunteer opportunities at Algonquin College, sign up for the Volunteer Centre’s mailing list!
Click here to visit the Volunteer Centre’s website!
There are several bursaries and awards available specifically to Indigenous students. These financial awards have various application criteria, and closing dates. You may find it helpful to meet with someone to discuss which bursary or award is best for you. Email us at mamidosewin@algonquincollege.com.
Gignul Non-profit Housing Corporation
gignulhousing.org
(613) 232-0016, 396 MacLaren Street, Ottawa, ON
About: Gignul Housing focuses on affordable housing solutions for the Aboriginal community. Limited student housing available. See website for application forms.
Inuit Non-Profit Housing
inuuqatigiit.ca/2012/06/housing
(613) 741-1449, 311 McArthur Ave, Suite 201, Ottawa, ON
About: Offers rent geared to income. Housing for Inuit families and singles living in Ottawa area. Limited housing available. Call for inquire.
Kagita Mikam
kagitamikam.com
(613) 962-3103, 5602 Old Highway 2, Shannonville, ON
About: Aboriginal employment and training services. Employment counsellors, job board, and information on education funding.
Makonsag Aboriginal Head Star
makonsag.ca
(613) 724-5844, 297 Olmstead Ave, Ottawa, ON
About: Preschool program for Indigenous children ages 2 ½ to 5 years of age. Free of charge and includes meals and snacks. Transportation may be available in your area.
Métis Nation of Ontario
metisnation.org
1-800-263-4889 ext. 7, 66 Slater Street, Unit 1100, Ottawa, ON
About: Provides cultural information and services for Métis community of Ontario. Services include Métis citizen registry and education support.
Minwaashin Lodge
minlodge.com
(613) 741-5590, 2323 St. Laurent Blvd, Ottawa, ON
About: Provides a range of programs and services to Aboriginal women and children. Services include counselling, children’s and youth programming, women’s shelter, and employment and training resources.
Odawa Native Friendship Centre
odawa.on.ca
(613) 722-3811, 815 St. Laurent Boulevard, Ottawa, ON
About: Odawa is a non-profit organization serving the Aboriginal community of Ottawa that provides a variety of services and cultural programs including: family support, youth program, home day care, and seniors support.
Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre
inuuqatigiit.ca
(613) 744-3133 ext. 215, 224 & 230 McArthur Ave, Ottawa, ON
About: The Ottawa Inuit Children’s Centre is home to the Sivummut Head Start Program, Tumiralaat Child Care Centre, the Family Literacy Program, youth programs, and Inuktitut language programming.
Tewegan Transition House
teweganhousing.ca
(613) 233-0672, 65 Harvey Street, Ottawa, ON
About: Tewegan is a 12 bed transitional home for young Aboriginal women between the ages of 16-29. For First Nations, Inuit, and Métis women that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.
Tungasuvvingat Inuit
tiontario.ca
(613) 565-5885, 1071 Richmond Road, Ottawa, ON
About: Counselling and resource centre for Inuit community of Ottawa. Offers a variety of programs, including employment and training.
Wabano Centre Indigenous Centre for Excellence in Healthcare
wabano.com
(613) 748-5999, 299 Montreal Rd, Ottawa, ON
About: Primary health care clinic, community programs, homelessness outreach, counselling services, health programs, and children’s/youth activities.