Quebec City’s La Dauphine Tackles Youth Homelessness Head-On

La Dauphine, a community organization and shelter in Quebec City, is actively working to prevent youth homelessness by providing essential support and resources to vulnerable young people. Among those who have sought help is Kevin Labbé, a 34-year-old who found himself living on the streets after facing issues related to loneliness and bullying. Labbé, who once excelled academically, attributes his descent into homelessness to substance abuse and a lack of support during his formative years.

Labbé’s journey to La Dauphine began when a friend encouraged him to visit the centre. Noémie Guay, a staff member who has worked there for three years, highlighted the importance of the organization in providing a safe haven. “We give them a place to be,” she said, noting that many clients struggle with substance use, mental health challenges, and feelings of isolation. La Dauphine has served the community for over three decades, focusing on youth who are at risk of falling through the cracks during adolescence.

Success Stories and Support Services

One of the notable success stories from La Dauphine is David Hunlede. Just six months ago, he was living on the streets but is now preparing to start university after recently moving into his own apartment. His involvement with La Dauphine began while he was staying at an overnight shelter in Quebec City’s Saint-Roch neighbourhood. “The organization gave me everything — clothes, food, space,” Hunlede shared, expressing gratitude for the support he received. He now volunteers at La Dauphine, aiming to give back to the community that helped him.

La Dauphine’s youth program, Jeunes en action Dauphine (JAD), focuses on reintegrating young people into the workforce or educational systems. Since 1998, the organization has also offered high school classes for those who did not graduate, according to Jasmine Desforges, a clinical advisor for La Dauphine. “Its main purpose is to help kids for whom the regular school system doesn’t work,” she said, underscoring the center’s commitment to meeting diverse educational needs.

Providing Nourishment and Community

In addition to educational support, La Dauphine offers nutritious meals to its clients. Head cook Jean-Luc Paquin, who was once a client himself, now ensures that young people receive wholesome food. “Back in the days, it was not like today. We would eat peanut butter on toast, or sometimes cheese,” Paquin recalled, expressing satisfaction that clients now enjoy real meals thanks to partnerships with organizations like Moisson Québec.

For Labbé, the support from La Dauphine extends beyond immediate needs. He continues to receive assistance for his drug addiction and works closely with his social worker. “It means facing the darkest [parts] of ourselves,” he reflected, emphasizing the ongoing struggle for recovery. Labbé’s aspiration is to establish a stable life outside the shelter. “I want to wake up surrounded by other walls, my walls,” he said, highlighting his desire for independence and a sense of home.

As La Dauphine navigates its role in the community, its commitment to helping youth like Labbé and Hunlede remains steadfast. By addressing the complex factors contributing to homelessness and providing comprehensive support, the organization aims to create a brighter future for vulnerable young individuals in Quebec City.