"I could never have imagined that we would still be here 25 years later!" - Pops
MONTREAL, Dec. 10, 2013 /CNW Telbec/ - Dans la rue, an organization which has been helping Montreal's street youth for the past 25 years, invited the media to its legendary Van today to launch its 2013-2014 Annual Giving campaign. Media had the opportunity to ride in Father Emmett Johns' famous vehicle through the streets of Montreal, following his original route and getting a glimpse into the early years when he dedicated himself to helping street youth.
"I could never have imagined that we would still be here 25 years later," confided Father Emmett Johns "Pops", the founder of Dans la rue. In 1988, at the beginning of his mission, Father Johns drove his Van through the streets of Montreal reaching out to homeless youth accompanied only by two volunteers. Today, Dans la rue employs 65 professionals, and over a hundred volunteers, who provide youth with a variety of services and programs. It is both an indication of the alarming situation faced these by these youth, and the unwavering commitment of staff, volunteers and those citizens who have given generously for the past 25 years.
Over the years, Dans la rue has improved the services and programs offered to homeless youth who stop by the "Chez Pops" Day Centre. The organization has since developed an expertise in the field of homelessness, a condition which still plagues the city today. While Father Johns was focused on responding to crisis by offering basic necessities, Dans la rue continues his mission by helping street youth acquire the necessary skills and resources, which will enable them to lead more autonomous and rewarding lives. Father Johns' ultimate dream was to offer these youth housing and Dans la rue has plans to do just that in 2014.
2013-2014 Annual Giving campaign
It now costs Dans la rue over $4 million dollars to provide its range of services and programs which it hopes to raise during its 2013-2014 Annual Giving campaign. The funding will allow Dans la rue to pursue Father Johns' mission and develop the services and programs offered to the homeless youth who continue to turn to it in great numbers.
A donation can be made by phone at 514-526-5222, by mail at Dans la rue, 533 Ontario Street East, Suite 450, Montreal, H2L 1N8 or online at www.danslarue.org
About Dans la rue:
Founded by Father Emmett Johns ("Pops") in 1988, Le Bon Dieu dans la rue helps young homeless or at-risk youth. With dedication, empathy and respect, and with the support of the community, we care for their immediate needs and help them acquire the skills and resources needed to lead more autonomous and rewarding lives.
SOURCE: Dans la rue
Dorothy Massimo
Director, Development & Communications
514 526-5222, ext. 223
[email protected]
Nadjib Salah
Communications Consultant
514 526-5222, ext. 227
[email protected]
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