How many older adults in our own neighbourhoods are quietly facing isolation, without anyone noticing? Many older adults in our own neighbourhoods are quietly facing isolation, without anyone noticing. At Le Chez-Nous de Mercier-Est, that silence is met with community, practical support, and human warmth through programs that restore belonging and independence for people aged 50 and over. As the need for these services continues to grow, every act of support helps strengthen the kind of community where no senior has to face loneliness or essential services alone.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Le Chez-Nous de Mercier-Est is a grassroots community organization supporting people aged 50 and over through social, cultural and support services. Our work is grounded in a person-centred approach that promotes dignity, autonomy and empowerment, while fostering solidarity and a sense of belonging.
We offer a wide range of activities that reduce isolation and strengthen social ties, alongside outreach and support services that help individuals navigate public systems. Our volunteer network plays a crucial role, providing essential services such as transportation to medical appointments, tax clinics and food distribution. Beyond services, we advocate for the recognition of seniors’ rights and their essential contribution to community life.
What problem does it aim to solve?
Founded in 1985, Le Chez-Nous de Mercier-Est exists to address a persistent and growing issue: social isolation among seniors and people aged 50 and over.
Isolation is not just about loneliness—it has real impacts on physical and mental health, access to services, and overall quality of life. Our mission is to provide a safe, inclusive space where people can remain active, connected and supported in their community.
At a time when public systems are under strain, community organizations like ours often become a first line of support—without always having the resources to match that responsibility.
When did you start/join it?
I joined the organization in 2023.
What made you want to get involved?
I was deeply moved by the organization’s direct impact on people’s lives. Le Chez-Nous is not an abstract service provider—it is a place where people are known, supported and valued.
I wanted to contribute to an organization that works at a human scale, but also addresses broader social inequalities, particularly those affecting older adults who are too often overlooked.
What was the situation like when you started?
When I arrived in 2023, the organization was still recovering from the pandemic. Many members had experienced increased isolation, and participation had not yet fully returned to pre-pandemic levels.
At the same time, the needs had intensified. We were seeing more vulnerability, more complex situations, and a growing demand for support—while resources remained limited.
How has it changed since?
Since then, we have seen a strong desire from the community to reconnect. Participation is growing again, and we have been able to diversify our activities and strengthen our outreach.
However, this renewed energy also highlights a gap: the demand for services is increasing faster than our capacity to respond. Our team and volunteers are doing more with limited means, but there are clear limits to what we can sustain.
What more needs to be done?
There is an urgent need to recognize and adequately fund community organizations as essential pillars of the social safety net.
We need to reach more isolated individuals, including those who face barriers related to language, mobility or income. We also need to adapt to changing demographics by engaging people aged 50 to 65 and embracing the cultural diversity of our neighbourhood.
But none of this can happen without stable, long-term funding. Right now, underfunding significantly limits our ability to expand services, retain staff, and respond to growing needs. Without greater investment, the gap between needs and available support will continue to widen.
How can our readers help?
There are several ways to make a difference.
People can volunteer their time, support our work financially, or simply help raise awareness about the realities of social isolation among older adults. Advocacy also matters—supporting policies and funding that strengthen community organizations is essential.
At a human level, reaching out to an older neighbour or relative can also have a profound impact.
Do you have any events coming up?
We organize a wide range of activities throughout the year, from workshops and social gatherings to community events that bring people together.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
We work closely with Frigo de l’Est for our food distribution service. They have a wonderful mission: to save, share and redistribute foodstuffs. They have a small team, but they do an amazing work with the resources they have, and they definitely deserve some recognition!
