What does home mean to you?

National Writing Contest for Grades 4, 5 and 6

The contest will return January 2026. Please check out our 2025 Winners page.

Read the illustrated book for Ayaan's winning entry!

See this year's winners!

Prizes

Grand Prize

$30,000 grant + iPad + pizza party

Runner Up

$10,000 grant + iPad + pizza party

All Entries

Each entry results in a $10 donation to a local Habitat

 Habitat for Humanity Canada Student Writing Contest

Thank you for supporting Habitat for Humanity Canada through the Meaning of Home contest.

Grades 4, 5 and 6 students across Canada are invited to submit a poem or essay explaining what home means to them. It’s a great way for students to engage in an interactive and fun way, and it teaches youth the importance of safe, affordable housing.

Our sponsors

Founding sponsor

Sagen - Meaning of Home Student Contest Sponsor

Award sponsors

Urban Systems Foundation - Meaning of Home Student Contest Sponsor
Quote:

One of my students who didn’t know she was a writer can now confidently say she is. She was a runner-up in the 2020 contest and was able to direct money to a Habitat for Humanity project in our community. This contest is one of a kind and changes so many lives.

Janet

Teacher

Spread the word

The more entries we receive, the more money is raised for families in need of affordable housing!