This organization was founded by in 1988 by Father Emmett "Pops" Johns, who sought to help homeless youth with empathy and acceptance without judgment. With a personal loan of $10 000, he purchased a used Winnebago and began driving nightly shifts through the streets of downtown Montreal, serving hot dogs and distributing clothing, personal care products, and nonperishable foods. Dans la Rue has since grown, adding the Bunker youth overnight shelter, the Chez Pops day centre, permanent housing units, and family services. It has evolved into a multi-disciplinary team of skilled professionals and dedicated volunteers, headed by a leadership team and board of directors, all committed to fulfilling JohnsJohns retired from active involvement in 2016 and died on January 13, 2018 aged 89.
Mission
Dans La Rue cares for the immediate needs of homeless and at-risk youth, and helps them acquire the skills and resources need to lead more autonomous and rewarding lives. Fr. Johns' philosophy, "to help without judgment", inspired this approach.
Services
Working with partners in numerous focus areas, Dans la Rue concentrates on meeting basic needs, mental and physical health, addressing legal and administrative issues, education and career-building, and parental skills.
Emergency services
The Van is an RV that serves as a mobile point of contact for street-involved youth. Volunteers distribute food and clothing and may refer users to other services upon request. The Van's circuit covers most of downtown Montreal. The Bunker Emergency Shelter, opened in 1993, provides bed, showers, and meals to 17 youths from 12 to 21. Specialized counsellors are available for additional services and referrals.
The Day Centre was opened in 1997 and provides meals, hygienic products, clothing, and non-perishable food. The Centre also offers legal services, an on-site school, and recreational workshops. The Family Services program aims to develop the parenting skills of street-involved youth. As of December 2014, Dans la Rue operates 17 permanent housing units, which are able to lodge 15 young people and two families.
