The approximately 20 apartments are well on the way to being built, with the help of a financial contribution from the federal government and the support of the Société d’habitation du Québec (SHQ), among others.
For Dominic Longpré, mother of 22-year-old Vincent Dubois, the housing association will fill a real need not only for her son but also for other autistic children who have some autonomy. Finally we have something that can help him, that will calm him down, a place to stay and then get help.
She says.
” I think that worries many parents: “What happens when we’re gone? Who is helping her?” »
Johanne Morin, president of the solidarity cooperative L’Envolée, agrees. Less than 30% of people with autism pay rent. That means the majority still live with mom or dad, but the population is aging, so where will these people go next?
she points it out.
Ms Morin argues that the residence will meet the specific needs of the autistic people it will house, particularly in terms of soundproofing. The majority [des personnes autistes] are hypersensitive to noise.
The cooperative mentions that they are currently in negotiations to purchase land in Sherbrooke. Access to public transport and proximity to services are among the main concerns.
A fundraising campaign will be launched shortly to raise $400,000 to carry out this project.
Construction work is expected to start soon and be completed in September 2024.
With information from Thomas Deshaies
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