CSAI: 75 Years of Supporting Refugees and Immigrants Towards Full Citizenship
In this fourth chapter, we explore the history of Centre Social d’Aide aux Immigrants (CSAI) from 2018 to 2023, a time of significant expansion and response to global crises. If you haven’t read the earlier chapters, we recommend starting with Chapter 1, which covers CSAI’s journey from its founding in 1947 to the 1960s, followed by Chapter 2 (1970s to 2000s), and Chapter 3 (2001 to 2017). These stories showcase CSAI’s evolution as a vital support system for immigrants and refugees.
2018-2019: Expanding Services to Lachine and Île-des-Sœurs
In 2018, CSAI responded to the growing needs of immigrants and asylum seekers in Lachine, where local organizations expressed concerns about the lack of specialized services. With strong community support, CSAI established a presence in Lachine, initially offering services three days a week. By 2022, demand had grown so much that the office expanded to a full five days a week, with a dedicated team of five employees.
In Verdun, the high concentration of immigrants on Nuns’ Island prompted CSAI to extend its services to Centre Elgar in 2019. By 2022, a permanent service point was established at 40 Place du Commerce, providing individual counseling and assistance with integration while continuing group activities at Centre Elgar.
2019-2020: Introducing PASI and Enhanced Integration Programs
The Programme d’accompagnement et de soutien à l’intégration (PASI), launched by MIFI in 2020, marked a significant shift in how Quebec supports immigrants. This program expanded CSAI’s services to include temporary workers, foreign students, and individuals in the process of obtaining permanent residency. With increased funding, CSAI developed innovative programs to promote civic, linguistic, and cultural integration.
2020-2022: Adapting to Global Challenges
During the COVID-19 pandemic, CSAI quickly adapted to ensure continued support for Montreal’s immigrant population. Recognizing the increased isolation and financial struggles faced by immigrants, CSAI set up a call system to identify urgent needs, from material assistance to psychosocial support. With a modernized communication system already in place, CSAI employees seamlessly transitioned to remote work, offering services through webinars and virtual meetings.
CSAI also focused on food security, delivering food baskets to 50 families weekly for 12 weeks, supported by Centraide and volunteers. For those without access to digital tools, CSAI provided in-office assistance while adhering to health regulations.
Supporting Refugees Amid Global Crises
CSAI has long been at the forefront of welcoming state-sponsored refugees (RPCÉ). These individuals often arrive from refugee camps and face the challenge of adapting to independent living in Montreal. CSAI stepped in to provide temporary housing, helping families transition smoothly into their new environment.
In 2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, CSAI was tasked with welcoming Ukrainian nationals. The organization brought on 10 Ukrainian staff members who provided comprehensive support, including airport reception, temporary housing management, and integration services. By April 2022, CSAI had assisted 1,770 Ukrainians, organizing numerous activities to aid their adjustment.
Commemorating a Legacy of Compassion
Throughout its 75-year history, CSAI has consistently responded to global crises with compassion and efficiency. From meeting World War II refugees at Windsor Station in 1947 to welcoming Ukrainian nationals in 2022, CSAI’s commitment to supporting immigrants remains unwavering.
In 2022, in partnership with the Fondation de l’Institut Notre-Dame du Bon-Conseil, CSAI commissioned a mural by KOLAB to honour Marie Gérin-Lajoie and celebrate CSAI’s enduring legacy of service.
As CSAI continues to grow, it remains dedicated to creating a welcoming, inclusive environment for all newcomers. Stay connected with CSAI to learn more about our ongoing efforts and upcoming events.
Let us remember that as early as 1947, the CSAI team went to meet refugees from the Second World War at Windsor Station and the Port of Montreal.
