New shelter for Indigenous people experiencing homelessness in Montreal’s Milton Parc

Projets Autochtones Québec (PAQ) will be converting two buildings in downtown Montreal into a shelter for Indigenous community experiencing homelessness in Montreal’s Milton Parc sector at a cost of $14.2 million.

The organization will be relocating their shelter permanently after operating since 2020 in a temporary location.

The new shelter will be open 24/7 and can accommodate up to 50 people.

The federal government will invest $7.7 million for the project, while the Quebec government will contribute $6.5 million.

Makivvik Corporation has also contributed $656,936 to the project.

“Makivvik is proud to fund this important project for Montreal’s Inuit population experiencing homelessness. Our Inuit compatriots, who find themselves in a difficult situation, need our attention and our help. Thanks to this project, they will have access to a safe haven where our cultural practices and well-being will be encouraged,” added Jean Dupuis, Director, President’s Department, Makivik Corporation.

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Since 2004, PAQ has been providing a hub of services for Indigenous people experiencing homelessness in downtown Montreal, including two shelters, transitional housing for people leaving homelessness, an addiction program and many other resources. About half of its clientele is Inuit.

“On behalf of Montreal’s urban Indigenous community, PAQ warmly thanks the federal and provincial governments and Makivvik Corporation for this major investment. This support enables us to offer essential stability to members of our community through the creation of this home. Located nearby, this facility will continue to combat homelessness in the Milton Parc area by providing emergency housing for up to 50 Indigenous men and women, as well as 24-hour response services. PAQ is confident of securing the remaining $2.3 million to complete this project. Together, we can continue to forge a brighter future for our community, driven by compassion and resilience,” said Stacy Boucher-Anthony, General Director of Projets Autochtones Québec.

Montreal mayor, Valérie Plante, who was present for the announcement Friday said investments like this are one part of the solution to the larger housing crisis.

“We’re here to support and we’re here to find solutions. I’m not waiting. And, we’ve never been waiting. Working with our partners, on a good basis. You know what I’m asking for, more of a national strategy on how to work on those issues that are interconnected.”