Why are you shifting your focus from refugees to students?
The Canadian government put in place a new law that does not allow people to even apply for refugee status if they pass through certain other countries (for example, the USA), before coming to Canada. This means that the projected number of refugee claimants in Quebec for 2005 is one third the number in 2001. It is not that there are fewer people in need of asylum, and it is not that we do not want to continue to work with refugees, it’s simply that our government funding, and hence our viability, has decreased proportionally with the number of claimants.
We are choosing to now try and offer a ministry to students due to our location, and the expertise of our community (a significant proportion of whom are involved in post-secondary education). While this neighbourhood was one of high need when our building was purchased 30 years ago, today it is quite trendy. It is, however, within walking distance of two of Montreal?s four major universities and an easy commute by public transportation of the other two.
What’s “the Plateau”? And what’s so special about it?
“The Plateau” is a neighbourhood (or quartier) in Montreal. St. Denis, St. Laurent and Mt. Royal, three major streets for shopping and restaurants, cut through the area. It is bordered by two major parks, Parc Lafontaine (a centre for cultural events in the summer), and the mountain itself. As such it has become a heavily touristy area, full of vibrant activity at most times of the day and night.
Do I have to believe in something specific to live in the residence?
As long as you are willing to live by the community standards, and respect the organization's religiously motivated activities, than no, you do not have to adhere to a specific set of beliefs. Applicants who demonstrate an enthusiasm for community involvement and an inclination for service will be considered more favourably for placement in the residence.
What kind of volunteer work can I do?
There is a fair amount of flexibility as to potential partnerships. Recent placements included:
- a fair trade store
- a meals on wheels program
- a drop-in centre
- a senior's centre
Community rarely happens by accident. Members have to be willing to put time into building relationships, and we think one of the best ways to do this is over the dinner table. As such, everyone is expected to participate in at lease one community meal a week. The Time for this meal will be agreed upon at the beginning of each term, in accordance to everyone's schedules.