Safe Start
Indigenous program
The Safe Start program acts as a reference point for Indigenous women and men who have recently arrived in Montreal and who are at risk of finding themselves in a precarious or vulnerable situation. The coordinator ensures intensive follow-up, while taking a holistic approach to the needs of newly arrived Indigenous persons in the city. This helps reduce culture shock by providing a healthy, positive and culturally appropriate introduction to the urban environment.
Working in close collaboration with other services and organizations, the Safe Start Coordinator assists participants in many ways, such as picking them up on arrival at the airport or train station, guiding them to culturally appropriate resources, familiarizing them with the city and accompanying them to appointments.
- Inner city transport
- Listening and referrals
People who participate in the Safe Start Program also have access to many of the services offered by other Projets Autochtones du Québec programs, including :
- Hygiene items, showers and laundry services
- Support with identification and Indigenous identity documents
- Job search and school orientation
- Help in finding financial support
- Cultural activities and workshops
- Support in finding housing
- Emergency shelter and housing
- Computer, wifi, telephone and printer
- Well-being follow-up
The INDex was created to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis in Tiohtià:ke/Montreal in finding relevant and up-to-date information on services that were created specifically for them. Our goal is to promote cultural safety and community connectedness.
If you are an Indigenous person living, moving to or visiting Tiohtià:ke, the INDex can support you in your steps!
Need help now?
The Hope for Wellness Helpline is available to all Indigenous peoples living in Canada. Experienced and culturally competent counselors are reachable 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
1 855-242-3310