The University of Ottawa Medical Students SHIP program is a collaborative initiative that brings medical students into the community to gain hands‑on experience through structured outreach, learning, and engagement activities. Through this partnership, students have the opportunity to apply their academic knowledge in real‑world settings while supporting local residents and families.

Working alongside our staff, students participate in activities such as wellness promotion, community education, program support, and direct engagement with participants accessing our services. Their involvement helps enhance capacity across various Community Development programs, while providing students with valuable insight into social determinants of health, community-based care, and trauma‑informed practice.

This program fosters mutual benefit: community members receive additional support through meaningful, supervised interactions, and students deepen their understanding of culturally responsive, community‑centred approaches to care. All activities are coordinated through the SHIP partnership and follow established program guidelines to ensure a safe, respectful, and professional learning environment.