A transitional housing project and safe drug consumption site is set to open near a school in the Saint-Henri borough. The Maison Benoît Labre offers 36 subsidized bedrooms to people experiencing homelessness, who will be able to pay 25 per cent of their income for five years and receive support to transition toward a more stable life. City councillor Craig Sauvé emphasizes the need for more projects like this across Montreal and Canada in response to the rising number of people living in chronic homelessness. The site also includes a safe consumption site, which will be Montreal’s first safe inhalation centre, as well as offering food and showers.
The location of the site near a school and park has sparked controversy, with a coalition of parents, residents, and merchants fighting against having the centre in the area. In response to the complaints, a “good neighbour” committee has been formed, including residents, staff, police, and other stakeholders, which meets regularly to address concerns. The city has funded the construction of higher fences and the project’s staff now clean the park daily before children arrive. Police are also working closely with the housing staff to prepare for any situations that may arise, although they are not currently concerned as they aim to act based on facts and adjust as needed.
The project’s staff believe that cohabitation between the centre and the surrounding community could be mutually beneficial. Maison Benoît Labre executive director Andréane Desilets highlights the importance of humans talking to humans, emphasizing the overall project’s focus on community connection. Parents who are part of the coalition fighting against the site did not offer comments on recent developments. The centre is scheduled to open on April 15, aiming to provide support and resources for individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use issues in the area.
Overall, the project aims to address the growing issue of chronic homelessness in Montreal by providing subsidized housing and support services to individuals in need. The inclusion of a safe consumption site is a unique aspect of the project, offering resources and assistance for those struggling with substance use. Despite concerns from some residents and parents in the area, efforts are being made to foster a positive relationship between the centre and the surrounding community, with a “good neighbour” committee in place to address any issues that may arise. With the opening of the centre approaching, the focus is on providing much-needed support and resources for vulnerable individuals in the Saint-Henri borough.
