Sam Watts, CEO of Welcome Hall Mission, leads one of Montreal’s most trusted and longstanding organizations serving people facing homelessness and poverty. Founded in 1892, the Mission has become the city’s largest point of access for those seeking food, housing, and community support. Under Watts’ leadership since 2016, the organization has expanded its reach across Montreal, doubling in size and strengthening partnerships with the healthcare sector.
Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
Founded in 1892, Welcome Hall Mission is the city’s largest doorway to help Montrealers in need. Whether someone is experiencing homelessness or living in precarity, we provide access to the resources they need to get back on their feet. Hope and help pass through the same door. By growing a network of generous people and organizations, we are enabling long-term solutions so that when someone walks out our doors after receiving care and support, they have the tools needed for residential stability and ongoing independence.
What problem does it aim to solve?
The Mission is focused on the challenges of poverty, homelessness and social isolation.
When did you start/join it?
I started in my role in October 2016. I also serve as a ministerial appointee on the National Housing Council of Canada and on a variety of non-profit boards in our sector.
What made you want to get involved?
My entire career had unfolded in the private sector, and I was invited to help steward the growth of a sizeable organization and utilize core disciplines from the private sector to enable the Mission to serve those in need with effectiveness and dignity.
What was the situation like when you started?
I inherited a well-run, iconic organization that had a variety of growth opportunities. The important thing was to select the right options and to build a team that could scale up its operations.
How has it changed since?
The pandemic changed quite a few things, but our growth has continued. We have strategically added a variety of partnerships with the healthcare network and doubled the overall size of the organization. We have approximately 200 full-time staff, and 7 different points of service on the island of Montreal.
What more needs to be done?
The landscape has changed in Montreal since 2016. The cost of living has risen, rents are very much higher, homelessness is more prevalent and more visible. What we have been able to do is move the issue to the forefront of the agenda of policymakers. The solution is grounded in affordable, supportive housing. It is a cost-effective way to ensure that people in need can access and remain in suitable housing.
How can our readers help?
Readers who are concerned can become advocates for real solutions. We encourage people to develop an understanding of the issues and to avoid being influenced by voices that try to instrumentalize fear or treat all vulnerable people as criminals.
Monetary donations are also deeply appreciated, as they enable us to plan more effectively and expand the reach of our services. Donations can be made at welcomehallmission.com
Do you have any events coming up?
On November 29th and 30th, we’re hosting Noël Pour Tous, a major two-day event for the children of families who rely on our two free grocery stores. During this special celebration, 2,000 children will receive 8,000 brand-new gifts and enjoy an unforgettable holiday experience. Volunteer opportunities for events, meal service and food distribution can be found here.
Where can we follow you?
Website | Instagram | Facebook | YouTube
PAY IT FORWARD: What is an awesome local charity that you love?
One organization that’s especially close to my heart is A Horse Tale Rescue. And, as part of our mission, we collaborate closely with other like-minded organizations focused on food security and homelessness, including Moisson Montréal and the Old Brewery Mission.
