MONTREAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwired - May 5, 2016) - Although they are almost invisible, women count for about 20% ⁽¹⁾ of the homeless population in Montreal. To meet some of their needs, Welcome Hall Mission has created the Coeur à soeur program to help homeless pregnant women and young mothers find material, emotional and psychological support. For Mother's Day, the organization wants to invite the public to keep these mothers in need in mind in a special way.

"We have observed that a variety of factors such as isolation, loss of housing due to a precarious situation, mental health problems, physical, psychological or sexual violence can lead these women to end up in the street," said Nancy Morisseau, intervention worker at Welcome Hall Mission. "When these new mothers come to us, we try to overcome their problems by accompanying them in their desire for stability in order to provide a better life for their new babies."

Coeur à soeur: From street life to employability

The Coeur à soeur program helps expectant woman and young mothers in precarious situations meet their basic needs in a judgment-free environment. These young mothers also receive advice and basic supplies for their new babies (diapers, infant milk, clothing, accessories, etc.). They are then supported in their personal development through individual and group meetings allowing them to emerge from their isolation to create positive and meaningful connections between them. This approach empowers young mothers to develop parenting skills that can help them retain custody of their children.

As with many other Welcome Hall Mission programs, achieving independence is an important step in the Coeur à soeur program. This is why several initiatives have been put in place to provide practical work experiences for women. Thus, they can volunteer in the preparation of meals or do administrative work related to the management of inventory, storage and distribution of baby gear. This participation in the life of the group allows them to get out of their routine, be part of a different environment and feel useful. Following this support, and in cooperation with Welcome Hall Mission's partners, many women have gained back their self-esteem, got a new job or gone back to school.

Since 2010, 381 young mothers have participated in the Coeur à soeur program (209 active files).

An inestimable gift

To support the Coeur à soeur program, Welcome Hall Mission invites the public to make a donation in the name of the wonderful caring mothers in their lives. This gift will contribute improving the lot of disadvantaged young mothers and offer a better start to their baby, a gesture that will definitely warm the heart of the mother who has everything! Visit welcomehallmission.com to make an online donation and download an electronic card that can be sent to the mothers who inspire you, or call 514-523-5288 to donate by phone.

About Welcome Hall Mission

Founded in 1892, Welcome Hall Mission has become the largest doorway to help Montrealers in need. Many programs are available to support the homeless, young single mothers, families, children and youth. Welcome Hall Mission aims at giving them hope through concrete actions and effective solutions to help them improve their lives and reintegrate into society.

Web site: welcomehallmission.com

Facebook: facebook.com/MissionBonAccueil

YouTube: youtube.com/user/whmba

Twitter: twitter.com/whmba

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/2528106?trk=tyah