The Meaning of Home writing contest is back! We’re inviting students in Grades 4, 5, and 6 from across Canada to answer the question: “What does home mean to you?” Open until February 20, 2026, every poem or essay a child submits not only celebrates the power of words, it also directly supports Habitat for Humanity in building safe and affordable homes. This year, we’re aiming for 19,000 student submissions from coast to coast!

For many children, home is more than a place: It’s where dreams begin. Habitat for Humanity’s affordable homeownership model supports families in need of housing through geared-to-income mortgages, making it possible to purchase a home they can truly call their own — all while providing the stability to plan for the future and the foundation for children to thrive.

“The Meaning of Home contest gives children a powerful voice to share what home means to them — and their words inspire real change,” says Pedro Barata, Habitat for Humanity Canada’s President & CEO. “We’re proud to welcome BMO as our new title sponsor, whose belief in community and economic resilience aligns perfectly with Habitat’s vision. After all, what better place to begin building resilience than in a safe, affordable home? Together, we’re helping families lay the foundation for brighter futures, one story at a time.”

“At BMO, we believe access to affordable housing is essential to building stronger communities,” says Helen Seibel, Vice President and Head of Community and Employee Giving, BMO. “By supporting Habitat for Humanity and the Meaning of Home contest, we’re helping families build stability today and empowering young Canadians to imagine a future where communities can thrive.”

Founded in 2007, the Meaning of Home contest has raised over $3 million while inspiring thousands of students to become engaged, compassionate citizens. Last year alone, more than 17,500 entries raised $356,000, helping families across Canada build brighter futures through affordable homeownership.

Every student who enters the Meaning of Home contest helps Habitat build safe and affordable homes by earning a $10 donation towards their local Habitat for Humanity. Three grand prize winners will receive a $30,000 grant to support their local Habitat’s efforts to build homes for families in need of affordable housing. In addition, nine runners-up will each earn a $10,000 grant for their local Habitat for Humanity, making every entry a meaningful contribution toward building stronger communities.

Teachers or parents who are interested in having their Grade 4, 5 or 6 students participate can access an educational module at meaningofhome.ca that includes writing tips and information on affordable housing issues in Canada. Entries can be submitted via mail or online. Winners will be announced by June 2026.

The Meaning of Home contest would not be possible without the generous support of title sponsor BMO, founding sponsor Sagen^TM and award sponsors Metrie and Stantec.