In the Saint-Laurent and Bordeaux-Cartierville areas of Montreal, many families face lives marked by precariousness, isolation, or various challenges. For them, parenting can become a real obstacle course. It is in response to these realities that Au cœur de l’enfance was created.
An innovative agency, it offers an integrated model of services for children and their parents — from pregnancy through the transition into adulthood. “Each of our families has a life story shaped by different vulnerabilities,” explains Evelyne Gosselin, Executive Director. “Our challenge is to provide support tailored to their needs, with respect and recognition of their strengths.”
A deeply human mission
Au cœur de l’enfance brings together several services under one roof: a daycare, a coordinating office, a social pediatrics center, a social perinatal service, and a community agency dedicated to families. This unique approach allows the organization to provide a coherent and human continuum of care.
The director shares the story of Sara, a young woman who arrived in Quebec a few years ago, pregnant and isolated:
“Sara was able to receive a full range of services, from prenatal follow-ups to childbirth preparation workshops, from breastfeeding support to early childhood stimulation activities for her child, and later a spot in a daycare and guidance for the school journey.”
This comprehensive support reflects the philosophy of Au cœur de l’enfance: act early, provide long-term guidance, and build trust.
Together, for a better future
Thanks, in part, to the support of Centraide of Greater Montreal, Au cœur de l’enfance can continue its essential mission with the families most in need. This support ensures the continuity of services and strengthens community ties around children.
Every day, the organization’s teams work to provide parents and children with a place where they feel heard, supported, and valued. “We really weave a safety net around each of our families,” says Evelyne Gosselin. “I believe that’s how we can make a difference.”
During the launch of Centraide’s 2025 campaign, the Executive Director of Au cœur de l’enfance visited our offices to present her agency. In this video, she shares how Centraide’s support makes a real difference in the lives of the families she serves.
1 out of 5 people receives our help.
5 out of 5 people benefit from it.
Let’s all lend a hand
Supporting a network of over 375 community agencies also means promoting an inclusive, poverty-free society.