Kristen Holinsky

Becoming a mom hit me like a ton of bricks. It was a challenge beyond what I expected, and I struggled. Giving birth during the pandemic was isolating and access to resources was scarce. It was even hard to connect with friends, let alone to find the support I so desperately needed. I spiraled deeper into a place of anxiety and depression after my son was born and didn’t know how to find my way out. 

It has only been by slowly reaching out to others, and educating myself that I am finding more balance in my life once again. In joining the Parent Resource Centre (PRC) I want all parents to know that you are not alone. I didn’t understand what I was going through, or what perinatal mental health even was. I want to change that by creating more evidence-based resources and services for Ottawa parents at the PRC.

Before joining the PRC, I served as Interim CEO with Habitat for Humanity Greater Ottawa following my tenure as Director of Operations and Communications. I was the Executive Director of the Alliance to End Homelessness Ottawa, and Director of Programs and Strategic Initiatives with the Canadian Housing and Renewal Association. My experience in the affordable housing and homelessness sectors spans over a decade across program management, operations, advocacy, communications, and the development of partnerships and strategic initiatives at both the national and municipal levels.

I hold a Master of Public Administration (Queen’s) and an MA (UCL) and BA Honours (Carleton) in Cultural Studies. I have worked with the U.S. Embassy, Federal Government of Canada, National Gallery of Canada and City of Ottawa and served on the Board of Interval House Ottawa.

Find me on LinkedIn