Concept
Dans la Rue (formerly known as Le Bon Dieu Dans la Rue ) is a secular non-profit operating in English and French to meet the immediate needs of homeless and at-risk youth in the Centre-Sud area of Montreal. Dans la Rue was founded by in 1988 by Catholic priest Father Emmett "Pops" Johns, who sought to help homeless youth in a non-judgemental, open minded way . With a personal loan of $10 000, he purchased a used winnebago and began driving nightly shifts through the streets of downtown Montreal, serving hot dogs and distributing clothing, personal care products, and nonperishable foods. Over the years the organization grew, opening an overnight shelter in 1993, known as The Bunker, the Chez Pops day centre in 1997, as well permanent housing units, and family services. Johns retired from active involvement in 2016 and died on January 13, 2018, aged 89. In recent years Dans la Rue has been a co-organizer of Nuit dans la Rue, which raises awareness about homelessness in Canada. Today Dans la Rue has evolved into a multi-disciplinary team of professionals and volunteers, headed by a leadership team and board of directors. Chez Pops Day Centre: Since 1997, the day centre offers a wide variety of services including basic needs (food, clothing, showers), access to social workers and health care professionals as well as job training and help finding housing. Other services offered include music and art therapy and continued education. The Bunker: Since 1993, The Bunker operates as a night shelter for youth ages 12 to 21. The Van: Since 1988, The Van, an modified motorcade, distributes food (traditionally hot dogs) and other not perishable items nightly throughout downtown Montreal and the surrounding areas. Episode 6 of Historia 's Dans Les Pas De documentary series is about Dans La Rue and its activities. The 2020 non-fiction novel L'Enfer d'une Fille de Rue, also focuses on the organization and street youth in Montreal more broadly. Karabanow, J. (1999). Creating community: a case study of a Montreal street kid agency.