A Montreal shelter is giving people a room of their own: ‘It’s just a sense of dignity’

Rohit, a student from India who arrived in Quebec in 2019, has finally found a sense of stability in his small room at the Old Brewery Mission’s Webster Pavilion. With a single bed, a coat hanger, a phone charger, and a locker for his clothes, Rohit feels grateful for the privacy and comfort his space provides.

Having previously stayed in a crowded dormitory-style setup at the shelter, Rohit appreciates the transformation of the space into private and semi-private rooms, or “chambrettes,” as staff refer to them. This change, made possible by a generous donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, has allowed for a more dignified and personalized living environment for the shelter’s clients.

The shift towards private rooms has had a positive impact on the overall atmosphere at the shelter. While there has been a slight reduction in capacity, the focus on individualized spaces has significantly improved the quality of life for those seeking refuge at the Old Brewery Mission. The same upgrade was implemented at the Patricia Mackenzie Pavilion, the women’s shelter operated by the organization.

Mila Alexova, the co-ordinator of outreach services at the Old Brewery Mission, emphasizes the importance of providing basic amenities like personal plugs and lights to clients. These small comforts contribute to a sense of dignity and respect for individuals experiencing homelessness, setting the stage for a smoother transition to permanent housing.

The increase in homelessness in Montreal, exacerbated by the pandemic, has prompted shelters like the Old Brewery Mission to rethink their approach to providing support. With an estimated 10,000 homeless individuals in the province, half of whom are in Montreal, the demand for safe and secure accommodations is higher than ever.

For outreach workers like Alexova, creating a welcoming environment at the shelter is crucial in encouraging individuals to take the first step towards finding stable housing. By offering private rooms and personalized support, organizations like the Old Brewery Mission are paving the way for clients to address underlying issues such as mental health and addiction.

Clients like Benoît Martin, who struggled with substance abuse and housing instability, have seen a significant improvement in their well-being thanks to the upgraded living spaces at the shelter. The shift towards individual rooms has provided a sense of security and peace, allowing clients to focus on their long-term goals.

As the Old Brewery Mission continues to evolve beyond its traditional role as a shelter, the emphasis on long-term housing solutions and comprehensive support services remains paramount. By offering clients a safe and comfortable space to regroup and plan for the future, the organization is making meaningful strides towards ending homelessness in Montreal.

Rohit, who has faced personal challenges since arriving in Canada, is grateful for the opportunity to reflect and plan for a brighter future in his private room at the shelter. With a newfound sense of privacy and tranquility, he is optimistic about the possibilities that lie ahead.