Dec 13th, 2024

Community Wi-Fi Launches at Ottawa Community Housing’s 255 and 251 Donald Street Buildings 

Thanks to our partners, OCH was able to launch community Wi-Fi for residents of 251 and 255 Donald. That means residents will be able to access the internet in the building’s lounge/common areas. This new project is called CommuniFi and has been made possible through OCH’s partnership with National Capital FreeNet (NCF), Hiboo Networks and CIRA (Canadian Internet Registration Authority), which funded, built and will manage the project. 

To celebrate the launch, OCH partners hosted a movie night for tenants on Dec. 11 to test the free Wi-Fi. Residents were able to receive support in connecting to the free Wi-Fi. Partners helped ensure everything worked smoothly while bringing the community together with the movie.   

This exciting new program is designed to provide tenants with easier access to the Internet and empower them in ways that have a lasting impact on their lives. With the free Wi-Fi, tenants can explore online learning opportunities to develop new skills and education, search for jobs, update resumes and apply for work. The free Wi-Fi will also make it easier for tenants to connect to important services such as health, support, and government services. 

Our partners at NCF will also use the common areas at 255 and 251 Donald St. to host workshops and information sessions for tenants who would like help in using the free Wi-Fi or those who have questions. Watch your lobby, our website and social media for more information on workshop dates. 

“We’ve gotten to know some of the tenants over the past year, and they’ve told us about the challenges they face in getting connected, including high internet and cell phone bills,” said Shelley Robinson, National Capital FreeNet Executive Director. We want tenants and their guests to know there’s always free Wi-Fi nearby if you need it, whether you want help filling out your taxes or watching movies in the lounge with your neighbours. And if folks have questions about doing something online, our HelpDesk will stand by to help.”  

The CommuniFi project is part of our plan to partner with organizations that will help us serve and support you in accessing the resources they need to thrive. 

“The CommuniFi project is a step toward greater digital inclusion and a great example of how collaboration can create meaningful change for tenants and communities,” said Stéphane Giguère, CEO of Ottawa Community Housing. “Thanks to our partners at CIRA, NCF, and Hiboo Networks, this initiative will help tenants build stronger connections and open doors to education, jobs, and vital services.”