Chez Doris

Provide a day shelter, seven days a week, for women in difficulty

The Montreal-based organization Chez Doris provides a day shelter, seven days a week, for women in difficulty. The house provides meals, respite, clothing, socio-recreational activities and practical assistance in a secure and accepting environment. As of this past year, it has been providing 24-hour service during the winter (from December 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021). Chez Doris offers a safe and judgment-free environment for all women in need, with a high level of confidentiality.

In 2020, Chez Doris was funded by the Fonds Michael Novak 1, phase 1 of the Emergency Community Support Fund, and the COVID-19 Collective Fund.

With a contribution of $15,000 from the COVID-19 Collective Fund, Chez Doris was planning to house 25 homeless women by March 31, 2021. A housing and support services specialist worked on finding a place to live suited to the needs of each woman, and provided them with furniture, the deposit on the rent (if necessary) and a startup kit (cleaning products and a variety of other items), as well as any necessary followup help.

Photo: A woman signs a lease, accompanied by Chez Doris © Chez Doris