On May 16, the Laurentians came together for the 3rd edition of the Journée de mobilisation des connaissances en itinérance, or Knowledge Mobilization Day on Homelessness, a vital gathering dedicated to addressing one of the region’s most pressing social issues. Organized by the Integrated Health and Social Services Center (CISSS) of the Laurentians, in collaboration with the Université du Québec en Outaouais, Le Café Parenthèse, and Trait d’union jeunesse, the event took place under the unifying theme: “Acting Together Against Homelessness.”
More than 200 stakeholders attended the event in Saint-Jérôme, representing a broad cross-section of society — researchers, community organizations, health care professionals, and public sector representatives. Together, they delved into the intricate realities of homelessness in the Laurentians, fostering both a deeper understanding of the issue and the will to take concrete action.
A Day of Dialogue and Collective Insight
The discussions throughout the day tackled the complex and sensitive issues surrounding homelessness, with a particular emphasis on vulnerable populations such as women and seniors experiencing homelessness — groups whose needs often go underrepresented in traditional strategies.
The event concluded with a workshop focused on defining the roles and responsibilities of each sector and individual involved. Participants reflected on how to more effectively collaborate across disciplines and institutions, with the goal of creating a more cohesive and responsive network of support for those experiencing homelessness.
A Strong Message from Local Leadership
Benoît Major, Deputy President and CEO of the CISSS des Laurentides, underscored the crucial need for sustained and unified efforts:
“This day of mobilization proves that homelessness is a priority for all community stakeholders in the Laurentians. Only by working together can we confront this significant collective challenge. I want to acknowledge the dedication of all participants and partners involved—not just today, but every day in the fight against homelessness. I am proud of the CISSS des Laurentides’ unwavering commitment to this cause.”
Continuing the Work Beyond the Event
The Knowledge Mobilization Day served not just as a platform for dialogue, but as a launching point for future action. Organizers emphasized the importance of transforming discussion into policy, research into practice, and partnerships into tangible support networks for the region’s most vulnerable residents.
To learn more about ongoing actions and available resources in the Laurentians, members of the public are invited to visit the Homelessness section of the Santé Laurentides website at santelaurentides.gouv.qc.ca.
