Three St-Hubert locations in Laval join inclusive dining initiative for autistic customers
Credit Google Maps
Three St-Hubert restaurants in Laval will now offer inclusive dining environments adapted to the needs of autistic individuals, according to a press release issued March 26.
The initiative will be implemented starting Sunday, March 29, adding three new locations to the program already in place at a Laval restaurant on Des Laurentides Boulevard.
Three Laval locations participating
The participating restaurants are:
- St-Hubert Express Ste-Dorothée
- St-Hubert Express Ste-Rose
- St-Hubert Express Vimont
What is an inclusive restaurant?
On Sundays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., participating St-Hubert locations will offer adapted dining conditions designed to better accommodate sensory sensitivities.
According to the press release, employees receive training to better understand the realities of autistic customers. Adjustments include reduced lighting, lower background noise and the availability of sensory kits.
Families can also access online preparation tools, including a virtual tour of a typical restaurant, to help plan their visit.
A growing initiative across provinces
The project is led by the Fondation St-Hubert and the Fondation Autiste et majeur, with support from À pas de géant, an organization specializing in education and inclusion for autistic individuals.
As of March 29, a total of 75 St-Hubert restaurants across Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick will participate in the initiative.
Promoting inclusion through everyday experiences
In the press release, Josée Vaillancourt, director of the Fondation St-Hubert, said inclusion, respect for differences and family values have been central to the foundation’s work for more than a decade.
She added that the organization hopes the initiative will help create more welcoming environments across society while also highlighting the contribution of autistic employees within the company.
The inclusive measures are specifically offered during designated Sunday time slots, although all restaurants remain open to customers at all times.
