AJOI launches The Ouest Coast, a mobile unit connecting with with youth across the West Island

A new service for youth and young adults aged 14 to 35

Montreal, August 10, 2026 – Action Jeunesse de l'Ouest-de-l'Île (AJOI) is proud to launch The Ouest Coast, its first-ever mobile unit dedicated to youth and young adults aged 14 to 35. Already on the road for several weeks, the vehicle travels throughout Pierrefonds, Dorval, Lachine, Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Pointe-Claire and Beaconsfield, expanding AJOI's outreach street work presence across Montreal's West Island.

In a territory as large as the West Island, distance and transportation barriers can make it more difficult for young people to connect with community resources. Designed as an extension of AJOI's outreach street work services, The Ouest Coast allows the team to meet youth where they are and maintain a regular presence in neighbourhoods throughout the region.

"The Ouest Coast marks an important milestone for our organization. This mobile unit gives us the opportunity to be present in more communities and create more opportunities to connect with young people. At the heart of this project is the belief that every interaction matters and that a consistent presence in the community can make a meaningful difference in a young person's life."    – Tania Charron, Executive Director, AJOI

A mobile hub at the heart of the community

Two outreach street workers are on board to provide listening support, guidance, crisis intervention, prevention services, conflict mediation, referrals to community resources, first aid and harm reduction supplies.

The vehicle is also joined by Koda, the team's canine member, whose presence helps create a welcoming atmosphere and often makes it easier to establish first contact with youth.

Since its launch, The Ouest Coast has already become a recognizable presence in the neighbourhoods it visits, creating opportunities for spontaneous interactions with young people who may not otherwise have connected with AJOI's team.

"What excites us most is seeing young people make the space their own. Some stop by to ask a question, others stay for a conversation and many return week after week. These seemingly simple interactions are often the first step in building the trust that allows a young person to reach out for support when they need it." – Andrée Levesque, Associate Executive Director, AJOI

The Ouest Coast regularly travels throughout Dorval, Lachine, Beaconsfield, Pierrefonds, Dollard-des-Ormeaux and Pointe-Claire. The full schedule is available at www.ajoi.info/en/le-ouest-coast.