Quebec is set to gradually relocate some day services from the Maison Benoît Labre homeless shelter in Montreal’s Saint-Henri neighborhood due to concerns from local residents and the proximity to Victor-Rousselot elementary school, which is less than 100 meters away. The shelter’s meal program, which attracts many vulnerable individuals, has been a focal point of tension with neighbors. Starting next week, the shelter will reduce its meal distribution and collaborate with other organizations to cover the shortfall.
While there were concerns about the supervised drug-inhalation facility at the shelter, it will remain in place. The city’s mayor, Benoit Dorais, has acknowledged the cohabitation issues and asked for the day services to be relocated to a more suitable location. The issues cited include increased street drug use and general discomfort among local residents.
Despite implementing measures to improve relations with the community, the shelter continues to face criticism. Andréane Desilets, the shelter’s executive director, emphasized the importance of their services and sought continued support from all partners. Montreal is also planning a public consultation to address integration challenges and find harmonious solutions for managing services for the homeless while mitigating neighborhood impacts. The Quebec government is working with the city and stakeholders to find alternative sites for the displaced services and prevent the concentration of services in one area.
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