Carrefour Familial Hochelaga
The Carrefour Familial Hochelaga is a registered Canadian nonprofit organization (Business No. 118839745RR0001) dedicated to supporting families in Montréal’s Hochelaga-Maisonneuve neighborhood and surrounding areas. Founded over 40 years ago, it focuses on improving quality of life and empowering families with children aged 0–17 through community-driven initiatives[1][5].

Mission and Approach

The organization operates on a "by and for" philosophy, meaning its programs stem from direct input and needs identified by parents within the community. It aims to strengthen parenting skills, foster independence, and address socioeconomic challenges through tailored services[1][5].

Programs and Services

The Carrefour Familial Hochelaga provides three primary services:

• Maison de la famille: A welcoming space offering workshops, parenting skill development, family activities, and direct assistance for basic needs such as food security through initiatives like Frigo-don (food assistance with nutrition education)[3].
• École Hors Murs: A program enabling parents without high school diplomas to earn equivalency credentials, facilitating workforce entry and financial independence[1].
• Seasonal initiatives: Includes Opération Sac à dos (back-to-school supplies distribution) and a Christmas Sharing Store, which requires proof of local residency (postal codes H1V/H1W) and a nominal participation fee[3].

Additional offerings include mutual aid groups, respite care, daycare access, family camps, and community events[3].

Governance and Funding

As a registered charity, the organization receives funding through Centraide du Grand Montréal, with allocations including $175,350 in regular and $5,000 in special funds for 2024–2025[4]. It serves approximately 400 families annually[3].

Historical Context

The Carrefour’s origins trace to parent-led analyses of community challenges, which continue to shape its adaptive, innovative solutions[1][5]. Its longevity reflects its embedded role in addressing systemic barriers faced by families in the area[2].

[1] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/carrefour-familial-hochelaga/ [2] https://phil.ca/portfolio/carrefour-familial/ [3] https://www.211qc.ca/en/organization/carrefour-familial-hochelaga-maison-de-la-famille-18761657 [4] https://www.centraide-mtl.org/en/directory-of-agencies-and-projects/carrefour-familial-hochelaga-2/ [5] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/organismesdebienfaisance/carrefour-familial-hochelaga/impact/view/