Montreal, QC – The city of Montreal has a long-standing issue with homelessness, and unfortunately, it continues to persist. In an effort to honor and remember those who have lost their lives while living on the streets, a memorial was held on Sunday, April 25th.
The event, organized by the Old Brewery Mission, took place at Place Émilie-Gamelin, where a plaque was unveiled to commemorate the lives of 50 homeless individuals who passed away in 2020. The names of these individuals were read aloud, followed by a moment of silence to pay tribute to their memory.
According to the Old Brewery Mission, the number of homeless deaths in Montreal has been steadily increasing over the years. In 2019, there were 47 recorded deaths, and in 2018, there were 37. This trend is alarming and highlights the urgent need for more support and resources for the homeless population.
The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the issue, as many shelters have had to reduce their capacity to comply with social distancing measures. This has left many homeless individuals with limited options for shelter and support.
The memorial also served as a call to action for the government and the community to address the root causes of homelessness and to provide more resources for those in need. The Old Brewery Mission is urging for more affordable housing options and increased funding for mental health and addiction services.
In addition to the plaque, a tree was planted in honor of the homeless individuals who have passed away. The tree symbolizes hope and resilience, and serves as a reminder that every life lost to homelessness is a tragedy that could have been prevented.
The memorial was attended by community members, advocates, and government officials, all united in their efforts to bring attention to this pressing issue. It is a reminder that homelessness is not just a statistic, but a human issue that requires immediate action and compassion.
As we reflect on the lives lost and the ongoing struggle of homelessness in Montreal, let us also remember that we all have a role to play in creating a more equitable and supportive society for all.
