|
Our History
Santropol Roulant was founded in 1995 by Chris Godsall, 25, and Keith Fitzpatrick, 27, at a particularly tense time in Montreal's history. We were facing the impending referendum, high youth unemployment and persistent downloading of health care services from the federal government to the provincial, and ultimately to the community.
 Chris & Keith in front of Santropol Roulant.
Chris and Keith, both waiters at Café Santropol, were seeing many of their friends leaving the city in search of work - but the two of them were determined to stay in Montreal. Knowing that they could access some new youth employment grants if they came up with a great project, they launched the idea of a meals-on-wheels service run by young people in need of meaningful employment and work experience. Using the momentum of bikes and the creative resources of the Plateau neighbourhood, Santropol Roulant was an initiative that broke down stereotypes about the elderly, the young and people of different linguistic and cultural backgrounds.
Santropol Roulant has since grown and evolved into an important community space and continues to learn from the many people who are at the heart of the organization and its vitality and who give their time, energy, ideas and support.
Click here if you want to share some reflections about the beginnings of Santropol Roulant written by co-founder, Chris Godsall.
|
