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Ricochet (Hébergement/Homes) announced its relocation plans slated to take place at the start of 2025, remaining faithful to its commitment to people in situations of residential instability and homelessness in the West Island of Montreal and surrounding areas. The new location will remain in Pierrefonds-Roxboro, but with increased accessibility to public transport in order to facilitate access to its beneficiaries.
Ricochet general manager Tania Charron told The Suburban that the establishment will maintain its 48 spaces to accommodate the centre’s users. “Twenty-four beds will continue to be available for emergency sheltering and twenty-four beds for our medium term program which includes the daytime services where people can stay for a few months to develop a plan of action with support of social workers will also remain available, all with easier access by transport.”
Charron says that despite the many challenges the Ricochet centre has faced, the organization remains committed to its mission. “We are determined to continue to help vulnerable people and with even greater dedication. The location, which will be revealed closer to the opening date, will also be adapted to meet the needs specific to Ricochet,” Charron explained.
The organization is working with Smith Vigeant Architectes to create a space that will not only allow the organization to maintain its existing services, but also to develop new and inclusive ones.“We are eager to create a place where every individual will be able to step back and have the opportunity to bounce back, in an environment that promotes respect and dignity for all,” Charron said.
The relocation and renovation project was made possible thanks to a donation of $150,000 from Hockey Helps the Homeless (HHTH) — one of Ricochet‘s major financial supporters since 2017. Additional funds will be collected during HHTH’s hockey tournament scheduled for April 12 at the Pierrefonds arena.
Desjardins Caisse de l’Ouest-de-l’Île donated $40,000 towards the construction of an optimal kitchen to allow the organization to serve quality meals while providing a spacious and ergonomic space where beneficiaries can participate in the kitchen activities. Partage-Action de l’Ouest-de-l’Île donated $30,000 for general renovations of the premises to improve the overall environment of the centre. Paquette & Associés Avocats donated $5,000 for the renovation of the rooms of the beneficiaries.
“In this incessant tumult of challenges and obstacles, the sustained commitment of partners who recognize our work, revives our hope. Their compassion towards the vulnerable people of the community strengthens our determination to pursue our mission with even greater vigour,” Charron said.