La Sortie Opens New Residence to Support Women Leaving Sexual Exploitation in Montreal

Montreal, March 30, 2026 — La Sortie proudly announced today the official opening of its new residential facility, marking a major milestone in the organization’s mission to support women transitioning out of sexual exploitation.

This innovative project is a direct response to findings from a study conducted by criminologist Maria Mourani between 2016 and 2019, which highlighted a critical need: women leaving the sex industry overwhelmingly require access to safe, subsidized housing tailored specifically to their realities, along with personalized support services.

After 12 years of dedicated work, the new residence—designed by and for survivors—triples La Sortie’s housing capacity.

The facility will provide:

• Two emergency studios for immediate crisis intervention

• Nine one-bedroom units for women in transition

• Four two-bedroom apartments for mothers and their children

All units are transitional, with stays of up to three years. Residents benefit from subsidized housing and individualized support programs aimed at helping them rebuild their lives. Notably, the team includes staff members who have themselves survived sexual exploitation, offering a unique level of empathy and understanding that fosters trust and long-term success.

“The Horizon study revealed a harsh truth: without safe and appropriate housing, leaving sexual exploitation is often out of reach,” said Ronald Lepage, Executive Director of La Sortie. “With this residence, we are turning research into action. We are offering a true pathway to freedom and dignity.”

Strong Political and Community Support

The opening also highlights the collective effort of political leaders, community partners, and financial contributors who helped bring the project to life.

Chantal Rouleau, Member of the National Assembly for Pointe-aux-Trembles and Quebec’s Minister responsible for Social Solidarity and Community Action, emphasized the broader impact:

“In our metropolis, supporting women in situations of extreme vulnerability goes far beyond meeting a need—it means offering a safe, warm, and dignified living environment. Today’s announcement provides a real improvement in the daily lives of these women and their children.”

Benoit Langevin, City Councillor for Bois-de-Liesse and member of Montreal’s executive committee responsible for social development, added:

“The courage of these women is deeply inspiring. Access to stable housing tailored to their reality is essential—not only for their journey forward but for rebuilding confidence and stability. This project shows what is possible when community organizations, institutional partners, and the City of Montreal work together.”

Annie Archambault, General Manager of Desjardins’ West Island branch, highlighted the financial support behind the initiative:

“Through its Grand Mouvement Fund, Desjardins contributed $300,000 to support this essential project. La Sortie is the only organization dedicated specifically to helping women exit sexual exploitation. This residence offers them and their children a safe space to heal, rebuild, and regain autonomy.”

A Collaborative Effort

The project was made possible through significant financial contributions, including:

• Société d’habitation du Québec: $5.7 million

• City of Montreal: $2.3 million

• Community contributions: $1.2 million

• Desjardins Grand Mouvement Fund: $300,000

• McConnell Foundation: $300,000

La Sortie also expressed deep gratitude to the Crowley family, the building’s owners, whose exceptional commitment—including holding the property for over a year under an exclusive purchase agreement—helped turn this vision into reality.

About La Sortie

Founded in 2013, La Sortie is a charitable organization dedicated to supporting adult women seeking to leave sexual exploitation. Its services include 24/7 intake, emergency shelter, individualized follow-up, workshops, and activities that promote social reintegration.