When Kevin Labbé arrived at La Dauphine’s community organization and shelter in Quebec City, he, like many other young individuals, had a story to tell about his journey to homelessness. Despite being a former good student, Labbé mentioned that feelings of isolation and being a target of bullying led him down a path of substance abuse and dependence on alcohol.
Loneliness and lack of support eventually caused him to drop out of school. It was a friend who introduced Labbé to La Dauphine, where he met staff members and social workers like Noémie Guay, who emphasized the importance of providing a safe space for individuals who lacked stability in their childhood.
Although the center’s clients have diverse backgrounds, Guay noted that many of them struggle with issues such as substance abuse, mental health challenges, difficulty managing emotions, and feelings of loneliness.
La Dauphine has been supporting young people for over three decades, aiming to prevent homelessness among vulnerable youth who might otherwise slip through the cracks during their formative years.
From Homelessness to University: A Success Story
David Hunlede is a testament to the success stories that emerge from La Dauphine’s programs. After spending time on the streets, he recently transitioned to his own apartment and is preparing to embark on a university journey.
Only six months ago, Hunlede was experiencing homelessness when he learned about the services provided by La Dauphine after seeking refuge in an overnight shelter in Quebec City’s Saint-Roch neighborhood.
Grateful for the support he received, including clothing, meals, and shelter, he now volunteers at the organization, expressing his satisfaction in being able to contribute positively to the community.
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Reflecting on his journey, Hunlede shared his gratitude for the social reintegration program supported by La Dauphine’s foundation, which granted him opportunities for personal growth and development.
Empowering Youth through Education and Support
The youth program Jeunes en action Dauphine (JAD) plays a crucial role in reintegrating young individuals into educational pursuits or employment. La Dauphine has been offering high school classes since 1998 to assist students who may have struggled in traditional academic settings, as noted by Jasmine Desforges, a clinical advisor at the organization.