From the heart of Ottawa, the inspiring work of CoSA Ottawa (Circles of Support and Accountability) is transforming community safety through restorative justice. This non‑profit empowers individuals who have been incarcerated for sexual offences to rebuild their lives—reducing re‑offence rates by 70‑80%—through trained volunteers, a proven “Circle method,” and vital community supports. Yet, one element often overlooked is digital access. That’s where Heartfelt IT enters—bridging the gap with refurbished laptop donations to CoSA Ottawa’s volunteers and Core Members through its Laptop Giveaway Program. Together, they're fostering reintegration and tech equity in the Ottawa region.
CoSA Ottawa Does
CoSA Ottawa operates from the Bronson Centre (211 Bronson Ave), under program director Michaela De Curtis, and follows CoSA’s national model . The Circle method pairs a Core Member with a small, trained volunteer group. They meet weekly—either in person or virtually—to provide support, accountability, skill‑building, and access to resources like housing and employment. Backed by restorative justice principles, this model yields remarkable results in reducing recidivism.
Why Digital Access Matters
In today’s world, digital literacy and access to a reliable laptop are non‑negotiable for reintegration. From online job applications to telehealth check‑ins and virtual volunteer sessions, lack of access can stall progress. Many CoSA Ottawa Core Members and volunteers don’t have the tools they need—and that creates a blind spot in their reintegration journey.
Heartfelt IT + CoSA Ottawa: A Powerful Synergy
- Enhanced Engagement & Training
CoSA Ottawa volunteers rely on laptops for remote Circle sessions, online training, and documentation. Donated laptops help them stay connected. - Empowering Core Members
With reliable hardware, Core Members access job boards, virtual counselling, education, and community resources—supporting successful reintegration. - Boosting Events & Fundraising
CoSA Ottawa hosts annual events like Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend and the “It Takes a Village!” Gala. Event coordination, volunteer feeds, marketing—all benefit from reliable tech. - Supporting Funding & Donations
As an organization reliant on public and Zeffy donations, CoSA Ottawa uses digital platforms for online giving—requiring efficient tech infrastructure. - Strengthening Community Safety
Reintegration, powered by digital inclusion, helps reduce re‑offence risk—a mission‑critical outcome.
Conclusion
The partnership between CoSA Ottawa and Heartfelt IT tackles two crucial gaps in Ottawa’s community justice landscape: reintegration and digital equity. With refurbished laptops donated through the Heartfelt IT Laptop Giveaway Program, volunteers can fully engage, Core Members boost their digital confidence, and technology becomes a catalyst for safety, inclusion, and healing.
Your laptop donation today can help No More Victims and build safer, more connected communities in Ottawa. Donate tech—support justice.