By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In an innovative step towards addressing mental health needs, Mon Shack unveiled ‘Mon Shack 2.0’ at a Dec. 19 press conference, a pioneering facility that promises to revolutionize mental health care in Quebec. This new establishment will offer 22 affordable housing units, specifically designed to support individuals of all ages grappling with mental health challenges. The facility is not just a housing complex; it’s a beacon of hope, fostering a bilingual living environment and incorporating the groundbreaking Espace Univers-Shack living-lab.
The initiative, as detailed in a press release, and marking a unique model in the province, has been realized with an investment exceeding $5.9 million, part of the Second Canada-Quebec Agreement for the Rapid Housing Creation Initiative. Tenants of Mon Shack 2.0 will also benefit from the Société d’Habitation du Québec (SHQ) Rent Supplement Program, ensuring affordability and accessibility. This financial assistance, potentially amounting to nearly $2.5 million over the next 20 years, is largely supported by the SHQ and the City of Sherbrooke.
Mon Shack, which began its journey in 2013, celebrated its tenth anniversary by opening the doors of Mon Shack 2.0. Reflecting on its progress, Mon Shack’s first building was launched in 2018, five years after its inception. The organization was a trailblazer in the Estrie region, offering affordable housing, bilingual professional intervention services for young adults aged 18-35, and inclusive activities promoting social integration.
The Espace Univers-Shack, a key feature of Mon Shack 2.0, epitomizes innovation in mental health service delivery, research, and development. This living-lab initiative is the fruit of a collaborative effort between Mon Shack, Bishop’s University, and the University of Sherbrooke, aimed at enriching mental health services and fostering community engagement.
