William Crooks
Local organizations, participating businesses, and community leaders gather to celebrate the launch of Sherbrooke’s “Sentinelles” pilot project, a collaborative effort to enhance downtown safety and solidarity
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
Sherbrooke has unveiled a citizen-driven initiative aimed at improving safety and solidarity in the city’s downtown core. The “Sentinelles” pilot project, officially launched on Jan. 27, is a network of designated refuge locations within local businesses and organizations where individuals feeling unsafe can seek comfort and assistance.
A city press release states the initiative stems from community concerns about downtown safety, voiced during the city’s summer 2024 municipal survey conducted by Léger, which revealed that many residents felt improvements were needed. “Sentinelles” was conceptualized as a direct response to these concerns, combining citizen action with institutional support. The project currently features eight participating businesses, each marked by a distinctive window sticker identifying them as part of the network.
A citizen-led vision
At the press conference held in downtown Sherbrooke, co-initiator Sondès Allal shared the story behind the project’s creation. “It all started in 2023, after an incident my daughter experienced,” said Allal. “That’s when I realized we needed safe spaces downtown where people could seek help or simply regain their composure during moments of vulnerability.”
In collaboration with local organizations and businesses, Allal began brainstorming solutions to create a safer, more inclusive environment. “We dreamed of Sherbrooke as a big city that could maintain the solidarity of a small village,” she said. “The idea of Sentinelles was born from that dream.”
Training and collaboration
The pilot project’s strength lies in its collaborative approach. Each participating business has undergone specialized training provided by local community groups such as Équijustice, Mon Shack, and CAP Estrie. The training equips staff to handle situations involving mental health crises, substance abuse, and other challenges people may face.
“It’s about more than just offering a space,” Allal emphasized. “The staff at these businesses are now better prepared to support individuals in distress and guide them to appropriate resources if needed.”
Marie-Andrée Pelletier, director of CAP Estrie and another key figure in the project, highlighted at the conference the importance of collective responsibility. “This project is a true community effort,” she said. “By bringing together citizens, businesses, and institutional support, we’ve built a network that prioritizes well-being and inclusivity.”
City support and next steps
The Sentinelles initiative received financial backing from Sherbrooke’s economic development office, aligning with the city’s goals for social and economic growth downtown. The funds have supported the training programs and logistical needs of the pilot.
“This is about fostering a sense of security and belonging,” said Catherine Boileau, president of the Commission de la sécurité et du développement social. “By investing in projects like Sentinelles, we’re investing in the quality of life for our residents and visitors.”
The pilot will run for six months, during which its effectiveness will be evaluated. Feedback from participating businesses, community members, and those who use the Sentinelles network will guide potential improvements. If successful, the city plans to expand the program across other districts.
A growing network
The eight businesses currently serving as Sentinelles include cafés, boutiques, and community hubs, all committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment. “These spaces are much-needed refuges,” said Allal. “They represent more than safety—they’re about connection and solidarity.”
With its distinctive stickers and a robust training model, the Sentinelles initiative has already inspired optimism within the community. “This is just the beginning,” Allal remarked. “We envision a Sherbrooke where everyone can feel supported, no matter the circumstance.”
Sherbrooke residents and businesses interested in joining future cohorts of the Sentinelles program can find more information and application forms on the city’s website, sherbrooke.ca/sentinelles.