Located in the heart of Montreal, L’Abri d’espoir is a shelter and residence dedicated to welcoming women in difficulty. It provides immediate support along with services and programs designed to facilitate their social reintegration. 

“The Necessary Push”

Facing significant challenges as an expectant mother battling her addictions, Vicky Harvey found refuge and new hope in this compassionate environment. Managed by The Salvation Army, this centre has greatly contributed to her transformative journey, offering a safe place to live, a chance to rebuild her life and a better future.

The path to sobriety was not straightforward. With the resources offered by L’Abri d’espoir and iron-willed determination, Vicky began her detox. 

Salvation Army workers Michèle and Gabrielle were by her side to help her find the necessary tools to tackle her substance abuse and mental-health issues. Together, they created a safety net that allowed Vicky to rebuild her life piece by piece.

“By giving me support, The Salvation Army did something great for me,” she says. “They helped me uncover my willpower and strength, providing the necessary push that has brought me to where I am today.”

Profound Impact

Three and a half years later, Vicky is unrecognizable. Not only has she maintained her abstinence, but she has also secured stable employment, reconnected with her children and found a self-confidence that seemed forever lost. 

“I’ve regained independence, a normal life I never imagined possible,” Vicky shares.

Motivated by her experience, Vicky is now looking forward to the future with a desire to help the community. 

“Everything The Salvation Army has given me, I want to give back now,” she concludes, “because they have deeply marked me. I want others to benefit from it, to help them understand that we are not alone.”

Jonathan Gagné is the special projects/marketing manager with The Salvation Army in Montreal. With a passion for storytelling and social impact, he is committed to shedding light on the pivotal role of community support and compassion in transforming lives.