The Meaning of Home

Habitat for Humanity Canada and Genworth Financial Canada are asking students in grade 4, 5 and 6 across Canada to tell us what “home” means to them by entering the Meaning of Home Contest.

Karson– Guelph, Ontario
She opens her eyes slowly hoping, yet again, that maybe when they are fully open she’ll be in a warm house, with a cozy bed and a fridge full of food. Instead she has only two brick walls covered in graffiti– she knows as art, a ratty old sleeping bag and a back pack for a pillow. She takes a deep breath and hopes for a good day. She wants five more minutes but doesn’t have time. Time is all it takes to be alone.

Kevin– St. John’s, Newfoundland
When asked to write about what home means to me, the first thought that comes to my mind is a loving and caring environment.
Ever since the time I can remember growing up, I have always been blessed and grateful to have been a part of such a wonderful and loving family. I couldn’t have asked for anything better.

Tyler, Grade 5Edmonton, Alberta
On May 1, 2010, I was downtown in our city’s centre, enjoying a free hamburger and pop and taking part in the festivities leading up to a speech from the mayor. As I was sitting with my family, something out of the corner of my eye caught my attention. An old man shuffled past the people, looking complettely out of place. I could see that his hair was dirty and matted, as it poked out from under his tattered hat. His clothing was worn and ragged and I noticed through the holes in his shoes, that he had no socks on.

Lucy– Oakville, Ontario
I know that I am a lucky person because I have a house with two parents that love each other and me and my four siblings. As a family, we all try to have our suppers together. Supper is not just a time to eat food, it is a time to share the joys and sufferings of the family.

Margaret– Vancouver, British Columbia
As the wind whistles
As the rain pours
As feet pound down the street
As the cars fly by–
A young girl rushes home.

Samuel– Longueuil, Québec
A home can be a house, Where you can chase a mouse, Or it can be a town, Where you have worn a wedding gown.
A home is a safe place, One where you can relax, Or when you’re up to it, You can take it to the max.