Linked statement

“I want to honour Centre à Nous in Repentigny. It gives cheap rental space to around 30 community groups, a daycare, and health services so they can share resources and help people. I also want to thank the late Mario Morais for his work to build it.”

“Madam Speaker, today I want to pay tribute to Centre à Nous, which expanded to a third building in 2023. Centre à Nous is much more than just a non-profit organization or a collection of buildings. It is a true hub of solidarity in the heart of Repentigny and a deeply inspiring model that reflects the strength of solidarity among Quebeckers. What makes the centre’s model so exceptional is that Centre à Nous owns its facilities and is the largest centre of its kind in Canada. It offers organizations space at reduced rates, allowing them to devote more resources to what really matters: their mission and the people they serve. Currently, 30 or so community organizations have set up shop there. In addition, there are support groups and recreational groups, an early childhood centre, and even services provided by the Lanaudière CISSS. Rather than working in isolation, the occupants share spaces, resources, and even a living environment. It is a place that builds connections, fosters mutual support and enables each organization to go even further in fulfilling its mission. I would like to pay tribute to the vision and determination of the late Mario Morais, who believed deeply in this great project and helped bring it to fruition. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to—”