The dream of creating a recovery home in Ottawa to honor the late actor Matthew Perry is gaining remarkable momentum, according to his sister Caitlin Morrison, who described recent progress as “unreal.”
Morrison shared her enthusiasm during a recent visit to the capital region, where plans are advancing to establish a facility that embodies Perry’s vision of helping those struggling with addiction. The “Friends” star, who died last October at age 54, had openly discussed his desire to be remembered for his work helping others battle substance use disorders rather than for his acting career.
“It’s been incredibly moving to see how the Ottawa community has embraced Matthew’s vision,” Morrison told LCN.today during an interview at the proposed site in the city’s west end. “The outpouring of support from residents, local officials, and recovery advocates has exceeded anything we could have imagined.”
The Matthew Perry Foundation, established after the actor’s death, has been working closely with Ottawa Public Health and local addiction treatment specialists to develop a comprehensive approach for the recovery home. The facility aims to incorporate Perry’s personal insights from his well-documented struggle with addiction.
City Councillor Theresa Kavanagh expressed strong support for the initiative. “This facility will fill a critical gap in our addiction treatment infrastructure while honoring someone who was not only a beloved entertainer but a passionate advocate for recovery,” she said.
Perry, who spent formative years in Ottawa where his mother Suzanne Morrison worked as press secretary to former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau, maintained strong connections to the city throughout his life. This local connection has resonated with community members who have stepped forward with donations and volunteering commitments.
Dr. Vera Etches, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, highlighted the timing of this project. “With the ongoing substance use crisis affecting so many in our community, establishing more evidence-based recovery options couldn’t come at a more crucial time,” she explained during a recent press briefing.
The recovery home plans feature specialized programs addressing both addiction and mental health needs, reflecting Perry’s own experiences with co-occurring disorders. The center will prioritize accessibility, ensuring treatment options are available regardless of financial circumstances.
“Matthew always said recovery shouldn’t be a luxury only the wealthy can afford,” Caitlin Morrison noted. “That principle is central to everything we’re designing here.”
Community fundraising efforts have already secured nearly 70% of the project’s initial funding target, with local businesses and residents contributing alongside larger institutional donors. Construction could begin as early as spring 2024 if remaining funding objectives are met.
The Ottawa project represents the foundation’s first major initiative since Perry’s passing and could serve as a model for similar recovery homes across North America. Foundation representatives indicate they selected Ottawa for the inaugural facility due to Perry’s personal connection to the city and its demonstrated need for expanded addiction services.
For Ottawa resident Mike Lapointe, who has been in recovery for eight years, the project holds special significance. “Perry’s honesty about his struggles helped me acknowledge my own,” he shared during a community consultation meeting. “Having a recovery home that carries forward his legacy would mean everything to people like me.”
The Matthew Perry Foundation continues to welcome community input as they finalize plans, with additional public information sessions scheduled throughout the coming months at various Ottawa community centers.
Those interested in supporting the initiative can learn more through Ottawa Public Health’s community partnerships division or by contacting the foundation directly.
As development progresses, Morrison says her brother’s vision remains at the heart of every decision. “Matthew always said that helping just one person make it through addiction would make his own struggles worthwhile,” she reflected. “With this project, we hope to help thousands.”
