The Réseau d’aide aux personnes seules et itinérantes de Montréal (RAPSIM) is Quebec’s largest regional association of agencies that work in the area of homelessness. This network acts as a true collective force in the fight to prevent and reduce homelessness in and around Montreal by seeking solutions, sounding the alarm, and laying paths toward a society that leaves no one behind.
“RAPSIM’s greatest strength is the vast network we represent. Over 105 community agencies work to prevent and reduce homelessness throughout Montreal,” explains Annie Savage, the agency’s executive director.
A changing reality
Today, the homelessness crisis in Greater Montreal is more visible than ever. The face of poverty—which is increasingly present both on the island and in its suburbs—is changing. A phenomenon that once seemed to mainly affect adult men, homelessness is increasingly on the rise among young people, women, seniors, and even families, showing how poverty is intersecting with the housing crisis. The situations that contribute to homelessness are also increasingly complex, such as mental health problems and the devastating impacts of drugs. This diversity of people affected highlights the importance of taking action on multiple fronts and the need for collective action to effectively respond to diverse needs.
Getting out of your comfort zone: An instructive collaboration with Centraide
Through its relationship with Centraide, RAPSIM discovered the importance of engaging in a broader dialogue with stakeholders who may not be directly involved in the cause of homelessness.
“What we’ve learned from working with Centraide is how important it is to step out of your comfort zone. (…) To really change society, you can’t just preach to the choir,” says Annie Savage. This bold approach expands perspectives to address homelessness from a collective angle.
A vision for the future: Recognition and better support
One of Annie Savage’s dreams for the future is to see the entire community network benefit from stable, predictable financial support that meets its needs. She would also like to see greater recognition of the central role in social transformation that these agencies play.
In this inspiring video, Annie Savage, Executive Director of RAPSIM, shares her experience with Centraide and her vision for the future.
Watch the video
1 out of 5 people receives our help.
5 out of 5 people benefit from it.
Let’s all lend a hand
Supporting a network of over 375 community agencies also means promoting an inclusive, poverty-free society.