METRO donates $75,000 to the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ

Montreal, September 7, 2023 - The Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ has partnered with METRO to make transitioning to independent living easier for youths aged 16 to 25 in need of protection. To ensure youths can afford to pay their first grocery bill and buy basic hygiene products, METRO has provided the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ with $75,000 worth of gift cards that can be redeemed at any Metro or Super C store in Quebec. The partnership will enable the Fondation to enhance the support and assistance it provides.

Every year in Quebec, 2,000 youths in care reach the age of majority and are then faced with issues like inflation and housing insecurity. Given the difficult circumstances, youths find themselves struggling, with the Fondation addressing critical needs on a daily basis. 

Last year, for example, the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ helped 1 in 4 youths aging out of the system. 

“We are very excited to partner with METRO. Their generous gift will help us cater to the very real and pressing needs of youths making the leap into independent living. With the grocery store cards, we can be there for youths in a tangible way so they get off to a good start in their adult lives. Thank you to METRO for giving us a hand in supporting them as they reach this important milestone.” - Fabienne Audette, Managing Director of the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ.

Through this partnership, hundreds of youths in the care of the DYP will have access to the assistance provided by METRO.

“Our purpose, nourishing the health and well-being of communities, complements the mission of the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ. To build stronger communities, we must make sure that youths, particularly vulnerable youths, can thrive and move safely into adulthood. That’s why METRO is proud to help cover the first grocery bill for youths beginning their journeys to independent living.” - Marie-Claude Bacon, Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications.

Socioeconomic contribution is a priority for METRO. The donation is part of the company’s community investment policy designed to help reduce social inequalities, particularly in the areas of food and health.

Pictured: Marie-Claude Bacon, Vice President, Public Affairs and Communications, METRO; Fabienne Audette, Managing Director, Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ; Dominique Dupuis, Vice Chair of the Board of the Fondation des jeunes de la DPJ and Tax Associate, KPMG