Students and staff at École secondaire Leblanc recently held the sixth annual edition of the Sa’Coche project, an initiative aimed at distributing bags filled with essential items to Laval residents experiencing homelessness.
The April 23 activity was organized in collaboration with Virginie Dufour and with support from Refuge de Laval and local partners.
Sixth year of community support
According to organizers, the project is intended to respond to immediate needs while also promoting dignity, health and well-being for people facing housing insecurity.
Dufour said the initiative reflects the strong commitment of the school community and highlighted the importance of continuing efforts to address homelessness and the housing crisis.
Students from support classes take part
This year, all students from two emotional support classes, aged 15 to 16, participated in the initiative.
Teacher Laurianne Philippe said the involvement of these students represents an important step in creating opportunities for all youth to develop autonomy, confidence and practical skills.
She added that the project helps students build abilities related to teamwork, partnerships, workplace readiness and entrepreneurship.
Youth perspective
Student Malik Charlebois said the goal of Sa’Coche is to support people in need by offering “a ray of sunshine” that can brighten their day.
Local engagement
Organizers also credited school staff members Manon Benoit, Line Levasseur, Laurianne Philippe and Caroline Forget, along with students and community partners, for helping carry out the annual initiative.
