We recognize the need and aim to meet the challenge
Children struggling with poverty at home have a difficult time succeeding in school. They are also at a greater risk for long-term health problems. Children living below the poverty line are more likely to live in problem neighbourhoods. They are more likely to suffer from medical conditions and ailments. Many are not getting the nutrition they need to face each day of learning.
Over 15,000 children in Ottawa visit a food bank at least once a month. Our Foundation strives to offer help to the children in our schools who need it most. By helping provide the basic necessities of life – like food, shelter, and clothing – we can give them a better chance for success. We can help change their future for the better. We can help provide them with what they need to get through the day.
Our mission
The Catholic Education Foundation of Ottawa (CEFO) is a registered charity whose objective is to counter the effects of poverty on Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB) students. We are an independent charitable arm of the OCSB.
All of our proceeds are directed to educational programs, recreational activities, and emergency response funds for impoverished children and their families.
Our Board of Directors
Name | Position/Location |
---|---|
Thomas D'Amico, President | Director of Education, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Carrie Bowie, Chair | Secondary Principals' Representative, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Cathy Philpott, Vice-Chair | Community Representative |
Shelley Donnelly, Treasurer | Manager of Finance, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Trustee Mark D. Mullan, Director | Chairperson, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Trustee Shelley Lawrence, RSCJ, Director | Trustee, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Shelly Lyonnais, Director | Elementary Principals' Representative, Ottawa Catholic School Board |
Michele Pierce, Director | OECTA Representative |
Roxeanne Marberl, Director | Catholic School Parents' Association of Ottawa (CSPA) |
Denis Belanger, Director | Knights of Columbus Representative |
Deacon Fred Jardine, Director | Archdiocese of Ottawa, Diocesan Representative |