Housing and Employment Support for Refugees in Quebec

Refugees in Montreal and across Quebec face major challenges accessing stable housing after leaving emergency shelters, particularly individuals and single mothers who encounter discrimination and landlord requirements like deposits, credit checks, and employment verification they cannot provide. Employment is equally difficult due to lack of credential recognition, no Canadian experience, and weak professional networks, leaving vulnerable individuals at risk of precarious housing or homelessness.

The Northpine Foundation investment in Le Pont supports a structured stabilization program that combines transitional housing access with employment support to help refugees transition sustainably from emergency shelter into stable housing.

This initiative leverages The Refugee Centre’s innovative model of offering landlords one year upfront payment in return for a significant discount to obtain stable housing for refugees.

The program supports refugees through a 14-month support window including a transition period with dedicated housing coordination, individualized search support, landlord mediation, and moving assistance, alongside employment supports include individualized career planning, access to professional training and internships, credential recognition assistance, and work-related equipment, delivered by a dedicated employer relations professional.