Nepean Community Support Services

Nepean Community Support Services (NCSS), operating under the name Nepean, Rideau and Osgoode Community Resource Centre (NROCRC), is a Canadian nonprofit charitable organization that provides integrated social services to residents primarily in the Nepean, Rideau, and Osgoode areas of Ottawa. It serves a large and diverse population of over 200,000 people, offering programs and services aimed at supporting vulnerable individuals and families to improve their quality of life.

History and Mission

NCSS was established to address the diverse needs of its community, including immigrant families, newcomers, youth, and a growing population of seniors. The organization is committed to delivering free, accessible support programs that foster community well-being and inclusion. Its mission focuses on providing comprehensive and coordinated social services to help vulnerable residents lead better lives.

Services and Programs

NCSS offers a broad range of social services and community programs including:

• Information and referral services
• Counselling for individuals, couples, youth, and families
• Community development initiatives
• Violence against women services
• Youth engagement and after-school programs for children
• Playgroups for children aged 0-6 years
• Health promotion groups
• Assistance with Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) applications
• Referrals to emergency food programs within the service area
• Emergency support for diapers and infant formula
• Diabetes Education Program (offered separately)
• Good Food Box distribution
• Tools 4 School program support
• General legal advice, document notarization, and affidavits

Additionally, NCSS facilitates access to seasonal support programs such as Toy Mountain, The Snowsuit Fund, and various holiday initiatives managed by local faith and community groups.

Area of Service and Eligibility

The primary service area includes the communities of Nepean, Rideau, and Osgoode. Some programs extend eligibility to all residents of Ottawa, reflecting the organization's commitment to broad community support. Program eligibility criteria vary depending on the specific service offered.

Organizational Structure

NCSS functions as a nonprofit charity registered under business number 121396428RR0001. It operates as part of the Coalition of Community Health and Resource Centres of Ottawa and maintains a significant physical presence in the Emerald Plaza location.

Impact and Community Role

NCSS is recognized as a much-needed and well-utilized resource within Ottawa, supporting a large and mobile population with varying social and economic needs. The organization contributes to social cohesion and resilience by providing accessible services and fostering community connections across the wider Ottawa region.

This description reflects NCSS as a vital community organization delivering integrated social services and programs designed to support vulnerable populations in the Ottawa area. The organization remains committed to a model of free, inclusive, and responsive community care.

[1] https://nrocrc.org/about [2] https://www.charitydata.ca/charity/nepean-community-support-services/121396428RR0002/ [3] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/nepean-community-support-services-inc/ [4] https://www.nrocrc.org [5] https://211ontario.ca/service/68974454/nepean-rideau-and-osgoode-community-resource-centre-nepean-rideau-and-osgoode-community-resource-centre/