House of Lazarus is committed to building a stronger, more connected community. That’s why our programs are open to all community members. We welcome people of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences to participate, connect, and grow together in a supportive and inclusive environment.
Advocacy & Community Navigation
Whether you’re facing a financial crisis, having trouble accessing community services, or just feeling overwhelmed by paperwork, you don’t have to go through it alone.
Our team is here to offer compassionate, confidential, and non-judgmental assistance. We can help you:
- Understand what financial or social services are available to you
- Fill out paperwork or navigate complicated online forms
- Access local resources in your community
- Find the right agencies or programs to meet your needs
Book a One-on-One Appointment
If you need guidance or aren’t sure where to start, make an appointment with Vicki or Shaunna. They will work with you to understand your current situation and help you create a plan to move forward.
Appointments are available by phone, in person, or virtually.
Contact us for more information
Email: vcane@houseoflazarus.com OR slabre@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Back-To-Work Program
The Back-To-Work Program is part of House of Lazarus’ Outreach initiative. We accept referrals from employment services to provide individuals with clothing and footwear suitable for job interviews and office work.
This service is designed to remove barriers to employment and help clients feel confident, prepared, and respected as they return to the workforce.
What’s Provided?
- Interview-ready outfits
- Business casual attire
- Work-appropriate shoes
We work closely with local employment agencies and nonprofits. If you’d like to refer clients to our program or partner with us, we’d love to hear from you.
Contact us for more information
Email: kmerkley@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Christmas Programs
HOL food bank visitors can participate in our Christmas Adopt-A Program. Learn more about this program under the Food Banks Programs tabs on our Food Banks page.
HOL is an active participant in the North Dundas Christmas Fund, which includes the Christmas Hamper and Snowsuit Fund programs. HOL also runs the South Stormont Christmas Hampers. These programs are open to anyone experiencing financial hardships- not just HOL food bank visitors.
Contact us for more information
Email: kmerkley@houseoflazarus.com (Mountain location) or mvillemare@houseoflazarus.com (Ingleside location)
Phone: 613-989-3830
CRA Tax Program
HOL offers free, confidential, one-on-one assistance with completing Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) Tax Returns each year. Our trained volunteers are here to help make the process simple, stress-free and accessible for everyone.
The program is open to individuals and families who have a basic income tax return and need guidance or support filing correctly and on time.
Why file your taxes?
Even if you have little or no income, filing a tax return is important. Completing your return may make you eligible for valuable government benefits and credits, such as:
- GST/HST Credit
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
- Ontario Trillium Benefit
- Climate Action Incentive payments
- Other provincial and federal supports
Who is this program for?
- Seniors
- Students
- Families
- Low-income residents
- Anyone needing help understanding or completing a basic return
Our goal is to remove barriers and ensure community members receive the financial supports they are entitled to.
Contact us for more information
Email: gayle.hewton@outlook.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Dinner on the House
A recent Food Bank Visitor Survey revealed that roughly 40% of adult food bank visitors are going full days without food. House of Lazarus started its weekly community meal program, Dinner on the House, in May 2017 to address this issue. Dinner on the House also has the goal to bring the community together in a social setting, helping to break down barriers that divide neighbours.
Join Us!
This free community meal is open to everyone. Unless otherwise advertised, it occurs every Thursday between 4:00PM and 7:00PM at Winchester United Church (519 St Lawrence Street, Winchester). The dinner is a drop-in style, with no appointment needed.
Contact us for more information:
Email: ssummers@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Drop-In Meals
House of Lazarus hosts a weekly, free community lunch every Thursday from 11:30AM to 1:00PM at the Morrisburg Community Hub (22 High Street, Morrisburg).
House of Lazarus also has two free weekly morning drop-in breakfasts in Dundas County; Monday mornings in Morrisburg and Wednesday mornings in Winchester. These events are open to everyone and they include a free meal, as well as an opportunity to do one or more of the following: socialize, play games, and get information about local services and resources. These events are welcoming and inclusive.
South Dundas Breakfast:
Mondays from 8:30AM to 10:00AM
Morrisburg Community Hub
22 High Street, Morrisburg
North Dundas Breakfast:
Wednesdays from 8:30AM to 10:00AM
Winchester United Church
519 St. Lawrence Street, Winchester
Contact us for more information:
Email: ssummers@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Green Food Bag
House of Lazarus provides two opportunities every month for ordering the Green Food Bag. The program provides community members the opportunity to get fresh produce at a wholesale price. There are no limits to how many bags a person orders and they may use both North and South Dundas service; the Green Food Bag program is open to everyone. The program offers participants the opportunity to select their own produce from a list of options that is updated on a monthly basis.*
*Produce availability is subject to change due to availability with distributor
South Dundas Green Food Bag
E-transfers may be sent to: accounting@houseoflazarus.com
Currently in South Dundas, Green Food Bag orders – single/couple ($15) and family ($25) – can be placed at House of Lazarus in Mountain, Happy Face Daycare in Morrisburg, Dundas County Community Living Inc. in Morrisburg, Mustards Variety in Iroquois, and J.W. MacIntosh Community Support Services in Williamsburg.
The South Dundas Green Food Bag Program pick up dates are the second Tuesday of the month (see How To Order for specific dates). Pick up locations include the House of Lazarus Community Hub in Morrisburg, the Royal Canadian Legion in Iroquois, Dundas County Community Living Inc. in Morrisburg, Happy Face Daycare in Morrisburg, and J.W. MacIntosh Community Support Services in Williamsburg.
Payment in cash or by e-transfer must be made at the time of ordering or when picking up the order. Ordering is as simple as visiting one of the order locations, where order forms are available OR printing the order form from the website and taking it to an order location.
North Dundas Green Food Bag
E-transfers may be sent to: accounting@houseoflazarus.com
Currently, in North Dundas, Green Food Bag orders – single/couple ($15) and family ($25) – can be placed at the House of Lazarus in Mountain, Happy Face Daycare in Winchester, Chesterville and South Mountain, Christ Church United in Chesterville and Nor-Dun Seniors’ Centre in Winchester.
The North Dundas Green Food Bag Program pick up dates are the fourth Tuesday of the month (see How To Order for specific dates). Pick up locations include Nor-Dun Senior Support Centre in Winchester, House of Lazarus in Mountain, Happy Face Daycare in Winchester, Chesterville and South Mountain, Christ Church United in Chesterville, and Winchester Arena.
Ordering is as simple as visiting one of the order locations, where order forms are available OR printing the order form from the website and taking it to an order location. Please be reminded that Green Food Bags are paid for in cash or by e-transfer when ordered. Green Food Bags can also be paid for when picked up.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the Green Food Bag compare to grocery store prices?
After completing a cost analysis, we found that our $15 Green Food Bag would cost $40.73 to buy in grocery stores, and our $25 Green Food Bag would cost $56.84 to buy in grocery stores.
Do I have to live in the area to be eligible to buy a bag?
No, where you live is not a determinant for eligibility.
Do I have to make a minimum amount of money per year to be eligible?
No, the program is open to everyone regardless of income.
Am I limited to one bag per month?
No, you may purchase as many bags as you like. Buying power increases with the number of bags ordered.
Can I buy from more than one Green Food Box program?
Yes. The programs are open to everyone and there are no limits.
Where do you buy the produce?
We purchase our produce from a wholesaler.
How much of the money I pay for my bag is used to buy the produce?
All of it.
Contact us for more information
Email: ssummers@houseoflazarus.com or mtobin@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Grow-A-Row
Grow-A-Row is a people-helping-people program to assist in feeding the hungry in our own community. Community members looking to help can plant and grow an extra row of fruits or vegetables and donate the harvest to HOL’s food bank.
Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. By sharing the harvest of individual and community gardens, it helps provide nutritious produce to food bank visitors who often lack fresh produce in their diets.
Contact us for more information
Email: kmerkley@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Handyman Heroes
Handyman Heroes is part of HOL’s Neighbours Helping Neighbours initiative, which was created to help maintain stability in the lives of those in need. The goal is to help with basic needs, such as transportation, housing, and food security.
The Handyman Heroes project matches licensed tradespeople with families in need of home renovations or auto repairs that are urgent in nature. The volunteer professionals provide the labour, while HOL provides the parts and materials needed.
Recipients of the project are asked to “Pay it Forward” by finding a way to use their skills or talents to help someone in their community.
This project, like most HOL projects, is only possible through the generous contributions of community volunteers, those who volunteer their time, energy and expertise, as well as those who contribute financially. We are always looking for people to contribute their time and skills to this program.
Contact Cathy for more information
Email: cashby@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Healing Pathway
Healing Pathway is an energy healing model similar to reiki. It is based on Healing Touch used by the medical professions. Trained volunteers help you relax, let go of anxieties and stress, and bring your body, mind and spirit into balance, so you can heal. Healing Pathway emphasizes self care and making the most of your body’s ability to heal itself. We offer several ways to experience it: a half hour in-person session with two practitioners; an individual session over the phone or by videochat; or in a group gathering like our weekly meditation on Zoom. It is free for anyone in the community who would like to try it.
While these sessions are free, registration is required.
Contact us for more information
Email: vcane@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
This program was developed for the United Church of Canada but it is accessible to anyone regardless of their religious connection. Practitioners use language about the sacred that the receiver is comfortable with. We believe the gift of healing ministry is for all people and have no desire to promote our own branch of religion. For more information, including the code of ethics see www.healingpathway.ca
Hope Bags for the Homeless
Hope Bags for the Homeless is a program that was put in place due to the number of individuals who were experiencing homelessness. This program is a 3-phase program that allows us to supply essential belongings, a resource sheet, food bags and shelter related items to those in need. With the help of our community, local businesses and the OPP we have gathered and prepared all necessary supplies and can ensure the bags are being distributed to those in need.
Contact us for more information
Email: slabre@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Linking Hands
Linking Hands is an initiative of the House of Lazarus, created to address issues of poverty in Dundas County, as part of the mission’s advocacy outreach.
Linking Hands is run by a Steering Committee comprised of representatives from more than a dozen local agencies. The goals of this initiative include: advocating for the needs of rural people living in poverty to all three levels of government; identifying gaps that affect the rural poor and starting projects that reduce poverty in our communities; informing the community about available services; linking people living in poverty with each other and with their community; and, providing opportunities for people in poverty to come together for mutual support.
Looking to Connect with Linking Hands?
Linking Hands is always seeking community agencies and organizations to join our Steering Committee. By working together, we strengthen our collective voice and advocate for individuals and families experiencing poverty in our community. Through collaboration, shared knowledge, and coordinated action, we strive to address local needs, reduce barriers, and create meaningful change for those facing poverty and food insecurity. We welcome agencies that share our commitment to building a more connected, supportive, and equitable community.
Contact us for more information
Email: cashby@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Lunch & Learn
House of Lazarus provides free monthly events for Dundas County residents of all ages and backgrounds. These events are held from September to November and from January to June. These events start at 11AM and end at 1PM. They include lunch, as well as an education &/or entertaining presentation.
While this event is free, registration is required, as we need to ensure there is enough lunch (and seating) for everyone.
Check out our events calendar to see what’s coming up.
Contact us for more information
Email: vcane@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Medical Supplies
House of Lazarus maintains a rotating inventory of assorted medical supplies and mobility equipment to support individuals and families in our community. Availability is based entirely on donations, so items in stock may vary throughout the year.
Our goal is to help community members maintain comfort, safety, and independence at home by providing access to essential medical and accessibility equipment at low or no cost whenever possible.
Commonly Available Items
While inventory changes frequently, typical supplies may include (but are not limited to):
- Walkers and canes
- Wheelchairs and transport chairs
- Commodes and raised toilet seats
- Shower chairs and bath benches
- Bathroom safety bars and grab rails
- Crutches and braces
- Other small medical or mobility aids
How the Program Works
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Through Outreach: If items are available, equipment may be provided at no cost to individuals experiencing financial hardship or urgent need.
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Through Mountain Treasures Store: Some donated items may also be offered for purchase at low cost through our thrift store, helping us reinvest funds back into community programs.
Because this program relies on community generosity, we cannot guarantee availability of specific items, but we always do our best to connect people with what they need or suggest alternative resources when possible.
Donations Welcome
Gently used medical equipment in safe, clean condition is greatly appreciated and helps us continue supporting others in the community.
Contact us for more information
Phone: 613-989-3830
Neighbours Helping Neighbours
The Neighbours Helping Neighbours Outreach Program was created with the objective to improve the quality of life of people in need.
This program encompasses a variety of activities that will help maintain stability in the lives of those in need. This program aims to help with basic needs, including transportation, food security, and housing stability. This program is intended to “bridge the gaps” that exist between government funded programs and the people in need of food, transportation and/or housing by using community resources. Community resources may include local businesses, donations, and volunteers.
This program covers the House of Lazarus catchment area, which typically includes the Counties of Dundas and Grenville. This program is subject to the availability of community resources.
Contact us for more information
Email: cashby@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Operation Backpack
Operation Backpack was launched in January 2019. Initially, House of Lazarus was partnering with three local schools to offer a supply of nutritious meals and snacks for 235 children to eat over their weekends, free of charge. As of today, our Operation Backpack program provides bags of food each Friday in the school year to students in our community who might otherwise go without meals over the weekend. We help about 300 students from 16 different local schools in South Stormont, South Dundas, North Dundas and North Grenville. Each bag contains food for 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 4 snacks, with fresh produce and nutritious food included. Over the course of the 2024-2025 school year, we distributed 10,592 bags. The goals of this program include:
- to provide a free source of food for children of at-risk families
- to provide children with a nutritious supply of food over weekends, including snacks, breakfasts and lunches
- to support the health of children of at-risk families
- to provide nutrients through both perishable and non-perishable foods
- to partner with local schools
- to provide volunteer opportunities
Looking to help?
We gratefully accept community donations to keep this program running. Commonly needed items include:
- Canned brown beans in sauce
- Apple sauce
- Granola bars (no nuts)
- Boxed mac n’ cheese
- Oatmeal packets
- Canned tuna
- Canned vegetable/tomato soup
- “O” shaped breakfast cereal
Looking to sign your child up?
Talk to your school’s administrative team or your child’s teacher to sign up for this program.
Contact us for more information
Email: kmerkley@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830
Starting Over Program
The Starting Over Program assists individuals and families who have lost their homes due to unforeseen and tragic circumstances. Through this program, we provide access to essential items such as clothing, furniture, household necessities, and food, helping visitors meet their immediate needs as they begin the process of rebuilding their lives.
Contact us for more information
Email: cashby@houseoflazarus.com
Phone: 613-989-3830