Life on the streets is rough. It is also often cold and dirty. Food is scarce and hunger is common. At Dans la rue we try to take care of some of our kids' basic needs to make life more bearable and to give them the support they need to start getting their lives back on track.

Cafeteria

The Dans la rue cafeteria at Chez Pops makes and serves more than 100 complete, nourishing meals every day. That one hot meal a day makes all the difference for many of our kids and the feeling of community is a welcome break from the struggle to survive on the street. Breaking bread together is a tremendous opportunity for creating meaningful ties. And the friendly, caring environment makes it easier for kids to approach Dans la rue staff members (youth counsellors, nurse, psychologists, teachers, etc.) with their questions and concerns. The Chez Pops cafeteria is often where street kids take their first tentative steps toward making a fresh start.

Depot

The Depot is the place where all the material donations we receive are sorted, logged and redistributed. Twice a week, kids can drop by and pick up essentials such as socks, underwear, seasonal clothing, footwear, toiletries and blankets.

The Depot is also where we put together emergency of food bags for distribution via the Van every Wednesday and the last two Sundays of the month. The Depot staff also prepares the hundreds of hot dogs as well as the juice and coffee that Van volunteers hand out nightly.

Showers and Laundry Room

Street kids have many different kinds of challenges to face and basic hygiene is one of them. Dans la rue provides access to showers, washers and dryers. Those who wish to can use these facilities anytime they want. It is extremely important for these kids to feel clean and confident about their appearance - especially at critical moments, such as when they are heading out for a job interview or looking for a place to live.