This year, more than 17,500 Grade 4, 5 and 6 students from across Canada answered the question, ‘What does home mean to you?’ in our annual Meaning of Home writing contest, beating last year’s record by more than 2,500 entries and raising $356,000 for local Habitat for Humanity organizations. Their entries serve as powerful reminders of the comfort, security and joy a safe home brings to a child’s life.

Mehak, the Grade 4 grand prize winner from Brampton, Ont., writes that home is where she feels safe and loved — a place to spend time with family and create lasting memories.

For Jocelyn, the Grade 5 grand prize winner from Richmond Hill, Ont., home means love, hope, and family, which are especially meaningful after beginning a new life in Canada.

And Ayaan, the Grade 6 grand prize winner from Stoney Creek, Ont., describes home as his superhero headquarters that protects him like a shield. You can read Ayaan’s poem, Home isn’t just a building, illustrated by Mazie Lovie, a young artist who also grew up in a Habitat home.

Everyone who entered earns a $10 donation to their local Habitat for Humanity with their submission. In addition, three grand prize winners receive a $30,000 grant for their local Habitat. Runners-up win a $10,000 grant for their local Habitat.

Founded in 2007 by Sagen™, the Meaning of Home contest has raised over $3 million while encouraging thousands of students to become more active and compassionate citizens. Too many Canadians still face the daily reality of living without a safe, affordable place to call home. The Meaning of Home contest is a unique and meaningful way for students to express their creativity, give back to their communities, and raise awareness of the importance of safe, decent housing for everyone.

The Meaning of Home contest would not be possible without the generous support of Founding Sponsor Sagen™ and Award Sponsor Urban Systems Foundation.

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1 Sagen™ is a trademark owned by Sagen MI Canada Inc.