Upon entering La Dauphine’s community organization and shelter in Quebec City, Kevin Labbé, like many other young individuals, can pinpoint various factors that led him to become homeless.
Despite being a good student in the past, the 34-year-old attributes his descent into drug and alcohol use to feelings of isolation and being bullied.
These challenges ultimately led him to abandon his education due to lack of support.
Labbé’s introduction to La Dauphine was through a friend who connected him with the staff and social workers, including Noémie Guay, who emphasized the center’s role in providing a safe haven for individuals who lacked that security in their upbringing.
While the center’s clientele vary, Guay notes that many of them struggle with issues such as substance abuse, mental health concerns, difficulties managing emotions, and feelings of isolation.
With a history spanning over three decades, the organization aims to prevent youth homelessness by offering support to those who might otherwise slip through the cracks during their teenage years.
From Homelessness to University Enrollment: A Success Story
David Hunlede represents a success story for La Dauphine, having recently secured his own apartment and preparing to embark on a university education.
Only half a year ago, Hunlede was experiencing homelessness until he learned about La Dauphine while staying at an overnight shelter in Quebec City’s Saint-Roch neighborhood.
Grateful for the organization’s assistance in providing essentials like clothing, food, and shelter, Hunlede now gives back by volunteering his time.
Hunlede expresses his fulfillment in assisting others at La Dauphine, stating, “If I’m just everyday working in contact with the people [at La Dauphine], doing something that can help them … I’m satisfied.”
In 2025, he was granted support through the organization’s foundation as part of a social reintegration program.
Youth Empowerment Through Programs and Support
The youth program Jeunes en action Dauphine (JAD) focuses on reintegrating young individuals into education or the workforce.
Since 1998, La Dauphine has also provided high school education to students who did not complete their studies, according to Jasmine Desforges, a clinical advisor at the organization.
