Homeless outreach targets Montreal's metro system

A pilot project that helps homeless people in Montreal's underground metro network is hoping to expand its outreach by the fall.

In December 2012, theVille-Marie social development agency launched a new program aimed at helping the citys homeless population.

The pilot project involved sending a social worker to Montreals Place-des-Arts metro station.

The intention was to increase outreach and providemedical and social support.

Damien Sils, the head of Ville-Maries social development society, says he wants to expand the project by the fall to five more stations including Bonaventure.

The Old Brewery Mission, a Montreal shelter, is also interested in doing more outreach work in the subway system.

"The issue is really resources We know the population, we know many of the individuals, and our staff is very adept at working with them," said Matthew Pearce, head of the Old Brewery Mission.

"It's just a matter of having the human power."