About Transitiôn Québec and the Village Transitiôn
What is Transitiôn Québec?
Transitiôn Québec is a non-profit organization created in 2024, dedicated to improving the living conditions of vulnerable people. Born from an urgent need, it provides a structured, human response to the housing crisis and the growing issue of homelessness in Quebec, particularly in the Outaouais region.
What is the Village Transitiôn?
The Village Transitiôn Gatineau is a transitional housing site made of repurposed shipping containers, designed for people experiencing homelessness.
Each resident has their own studio or private room, offering the privacy and stability of real housing rather than shared living arrangements.
The site also includes common areas, a community kitchen, sanitary facilities, and personalized support.
This innovative project, the result of a public–community–private partnership, is centered on residents’ autonomy and is a model that can be replicated elsewhere in Quebec.
How is the project structured?
The Village Transitiôn was created through a tripartite agreement between the Outaouais CIUSSS (regional health authority), the City of Gatineau, and Transitiôn Québec.
Its construction was made possible thanks to the philanthropic support of Devcore Group. The living environment and services are managed by Transitiôn Québec.
Is this a form of privatization of homelessness services?
No. The Village Transitiôn does not aim to replace public services, but to complement existing resources when they are saturated or unavailable.
It is part of the continuum of housing services for people experiencing homelessness and is aligned with the Quebec government’s interministerial action plan on homelessness.
Who can live at the Village Transitiôn?
To be eligible, a person must:
- Be 18 years of age or older
- Be a resident of Quebec with ties to the Gatineau area
- Be experiencing homelessness
- Be able to respect the community code of conduct
Applications are reviewed by a selection committee composed of representatives from Transitiôn Québec, CISSSO, Réhabex, and Gîte-Ami. Each case is carefully evaluated to ensure a safe and harmonious living environment for all residents.
Do residents have to pay rent?
Not in the traditional sense. Residents contribute the equivalent of 25–30% of their income, depending on its source.
A service agreement is signed, outlining the mutual commitment between the Village and the resident. This replaces the concept of a lease (and therefore excludes the rental board/TAL).
This model encourages autonomy and is inspired by the principles of subsidized housing, while maintaining the transitional nature of the stay.
What is the difference between transitional housing and permanent housing?
Transitional housing is a temporary solution, with support, for people who cannot yet access permanent housing.
It allows residents to stabilize in a safe environment while moving toward a long-term housing solution, often with the help of housing assistance programs.
Who provides the services on site?
Services are delivered by staff employed by Transitiôn Québec, with positions funded by the Outaouais CISSS.
Staff are present 24/7 to provide human, adapted, and consistent support.
How is Transitiôn Québec funded?
Funding comes from government grants (municipal and provincial), community organizations, private sector support, and donations from foundations and citizens.
All funds are reinvested in the organization’s mission, and financial statements are publicly available.
Can this model be replicated elsewhere?
Yes. The Village Transitiôn is a viable, human, and replicable model, designed to adapt to local realities.
Implementation, however, depends on strong local partnerships and key community stakeholders.
It is not a copy-paste of the Gatineau model: each village is tailored to local needs. For example, if a community lacks services for women experiencing homelessness, the model would be adapted accordingly.
How can I get involved?
There are several ways to contribute:
- Volunteer, especially at the Gatineau site
- Become a member (individual, corporate, or supporting)
- Make a one-time or recurring donation
- Share our mission within your networks
Every action helps strengthen housing solidarity and build inclusive living environments.
How do you respond to criticism in the media?
Transitiôn Québec approaches criticism with openness and transparency. Feedback is viewed as an opportunity to improve and innovate.
The organization relies on ongoing evaluation and open dialogue with partners, experts, citizens — and most importantly — with the people directly affected.