MONTREAL, Dec. 9, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Dans la rue met with media earlier today in its brand-new housing development to kick-off its 2014–2015 Annual Giving campaign. This was also an opportunity for the Montreal-based organization, which is committed to helping youth living on the street, to announce the start of its newest program, designed to complement its day centre, emergency shelter and Van.
"This project is part of the continuum of services we provide youth who need stability to move forward in their lives," said Cécile Arbaud, Dans la rue's Executive Director.
The new development will provide 17 units for 15 youths and two families in high-risk situations. Dans la rue will offer community support to ensure that the housing experience, for many their first, is as positive and stable as possible, allowing them to focus on projects vital to their future.
"Although this is a welcome change, the transition to living on their own is a huge – and often difficult – step. Buying groceries, cooking meals, looking after their possessions and managing a budget are all a lot to learn. This, in addition to coming from a homeless background compounds the situation. But this new beginning is crucial and will show them how to handle other societal challenges more effectively," Arbaud said.
Twenty-six years into its mission of making a difference in the lives of homeless youth, Dans la rue is delighted by this achievement, which was originally inspired by its founder. "This is the culmination of a long-time dream for Pops (Father Emmett Johns). It fills us with pride and we dedicate it to him," she concluded.
2014–2015 Annual Giving campaign
It now costs Dans la rue over $4 million to provide its range of services and programs. It hopes to raise this amount during its 2014–2015 Annual Giving campaign. The funding will allow Dans la rue to pursue Father Johns' mission and reach out to the homeless youth who continue to turn to the organization in great numbers.
A donation can be made by phone at 514-526-5222, by mail at Dans la rue, 533 Ontario Street East, Suite 450, Montreal, QC, H2L 1N8 or online at www.danslarue.org
About Dans la rue
Founded by Father Emmett Johns ("Pops") in 1988, Le Bon Dieu dans la rue helps homeless and at-risk youth. With dedication, empathy and respect, and with the support of the community, we care for their immediate needs and help them acquire the skills and resources needed to lead more autonomous and rewarding lives.
SOURCE: Dans la rue
For further information: Dorothy Massimo, CFRE, Director, Development and Communications, 514 526-5222, ext. 223, [email protected]; Nadjib Salah, Communications Consultant, 514 526-5222, ext. 227, [email protected]
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