Montreal, May 9, 2024 – Chez Doris, an organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable and homeless women, and the Fulford Residence are delighted to announce the acquisition of the Fulford house as of May 8, 2024. This partnership underscores an exceptional and historic milestone aimed at preserving Montreal’s real estate heritage, while upholding the building’s purpose as a centre for social support and care.
In the current context, marked by inflation and housing challenges that are exacerbating the needs of women in vulnerable situations, Chez Doris and the Fulford Residence proudly unveil a collaborative initiative brings hope to women of all ages. The Fulford house will undergo renovations to accommodate a new day centre with a capacity of 100 individuals, along with 20 transition rooms, consolidating all social services provided by the organization.
“This acquisition marks the beginning of a significant journey, not only for us but for the community at large. We feel privileged to have secured the Fulford Residence, propelling it into the future. With this purchase, vulnerable women gain access to a space already renowned for its history of warmth and support, that will now be tailored to their needs,” said Carole Croteau, Chair of the Board of Chez Doris and a driving force behind this initiative.
“We are immensely excited about this new phase in the Fulford Residence’s history. The transfer of ownership to Chez Doris will ensure the continuity of our legacy—providing comfort and care to women in need, established over the past 168 years—in honour of Mrs. Fulford. We wholeheartedly support Chez Doris in its mission to use the house to shelter vulnerable women. Special thanks to our President, Bishop Mary Irwin Gibson, and Vice-President David McEntyre for their collaborative efforts throughout the sale,” said Pam Davidson McLernon, a member of the Fulford Residence Board of Directors.
“By acquiring the Fulford Residence, Chez Doris is resolutely pursuing its growth and the continuity of its services. This new residence enhances our capacity to prevent homelessness by offering transitional support. With the generosity of donors, we will refurbish the house to accommodate a significant number of women in vulnerable situations. Our focus on prevention helps to keep more women off the streets,” explains Diane Pilote, Executive Director of Chez Doris.
“Following the Quebec government’s decision, prompted by Héritage Montréal and Phyllis Lambert, to designate the Fulford Residence (also known as the Major house)—along with its site and heritage interiors documented by photographer Brian Merrett—the acquisition by Chez Doris safeguards this heritage of social and architectural significance. Built in 1859, the former residence housed charitable organizations serving women for 130 years, until the pandemic. Héritage Montréal commends the collaborative efforts leading to this agreement, ensuring the project’s success to the benefit of the whole community,” emphasized Dinu Bumbaru, Policy Director and spokesperson for Héritage Montréal.
This ambitious project was the result of more than two years of dedicated efforts by the Chez Doris Board of Directors, with invaluable support from several collaborators. The Board would like to thank all donors and Marie-Josée Coutu for her unwavering dedication. Chez Doris also extends gratitude to Marina Boulos-Winton for her exceptional contribution, and to Bruce McNiven of Héritage Montréal, without whom the acquisition of Fulford Residence would not have been possible.
Source: Chez Doris
Media contact:
Valérie Bélanger
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450-807-9586