Whether it’s through long-term partnerships or donations to local campaigns, PCL Construction has always focused on being an integral part of the communities where we work.

For the team working in the Ottawa office, one of the longest and most beneficial partnerships has been with Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa.

Dedicated to helping local families build strength, stability and self-reliance through affordable homeownership, the Habitat Greater Ottawa team knew the COVID-19 pandemic would affect how they raise funds, and raise roofs, in 2020.

“Habitat Greater Ottawa had to forego team build days on-site over the last year,” said Alexis Ashworth, CEO of Habitat Greater Ottawa. “But while it was a difficult decision, the support of companies like PCL has allowed us to continue building affordable housing for local families during the pandemic.”

The PCL team has actively supported Habitat Greater Ottawa for decades, including recent sponsorship of the Women Build program and annual Steel Toes and Stilettos Gala and past participation as the main development sponsor for a 2014 Urban Indigenous Housing build in Ottawa.

While the goal has always been to give back to the community, there’s no denying that the team at PCL has benefitted just as much from the partnership.

“Build Days are incredible and inspiring days for the staff who participate,” explained Melissa Houle, project manager with PCL Ottawa. “You learn about Habitat and the specific build, including information about the families who are going to be living in these homes. You’re then given tools and a task that is appropriate to your skills – and the entire day is an eye-opening experience, especially for staff who don’t often work on-site.”

It’s a dedication to supporting the community that hasn’t gone unnoticed.

“Our long-time partnership with PCL shows just how committed they are to helping build stronger communities in Ottawa,” continued Ashworth. “We’re tremendously grateful for the financial and volunteer support they’ve provided over the years and we look forward to having the team back on the Habitat build site once it’s safe to do so.”

When it’s safe to do so, the PCL team will go back to doing what they do best – helping to support the Ottawa community from the ground up.