As a leading player in the economy of Eastern Canada, the Port of Montreal has answered the call in an effort of solidarity and engagement to plan the upcoming recovery and support the most disadvantaged.
Solidarity with the neediest
Aware of the economic consequences of the pandemic on the most disadvantaged, the MPA partnered with the University Health and Social Services Centre (CIUSSS) of Centre-Sud-de-l’île-de-Montréal, the City of Montreal and Accueil Bonneau homeless shelter to help people facing homelessness during the winter by opening Terminal 1 of the Port of Montreal’s Grand Quay. The space made it possible to accommodate 300 people, provide hot meals and a secure, heated area for those who needed it during cold weather, and was used to its full capacity as soon as it opened.
The MPA also stepped up its financial support to three organizations in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve whose mission focuses on food security and assistance to people at risk: CAP St Barnabé, the Hochelaga Community Centre and the Chic Resto Pop socially responsible restaurant. Located in neighbourhoods adjacent to Port of Montreal facilities, these three organizations have received support from the Port of Montreal’s community investment policy since 2017 and 2010 respectively.
Heading into recovery
Over the course of 2020, the Port of Montreal also made a difference on several occasions through its involvement in the collective reflection on the economic recovery of the city and the country.
Former MPA President and CEO Sylvie Vachon was active on the COVID-19 Supply Council, set up by the Government of Canada to optimize supply chain efficiency during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Sylvie Vachon was also on the City of Montreal’s Economic Recovery Committee and the Industrial Strategy Council, which brings together business leaders to provide their perspective on the challenges facing Canadian industries, and which chose Ms. Vachon as Chair of its Sector Table on Economic Strategies in the Transportation Sector. The MPA participated in the Montreal Board of Trade’s MTL Relaunch initiative.
The Port of Montreal is proud to be the first Quebec port to be named a Marine Industry Trusted Partner for COVID-19. Awarded by the Chamber of Marine Commerce, this recognition aims to promote best practices in this period of pandemic so as to ensure the health and safety of society as a whole.