Joel DeBellefeuille Foundation

By Chelsey St-Pierre
The Suburban

The NDG community came together for a significant evening of music and unity on Sunday, November 24, to support St. Monica’s Church.

The benefit concert, attended by 550 people, aimed to generate much-needed funds for the church, which has faced financial difficulties due to recent urban changes on Terrebonne Street, including the introduction of new bike paths and a one-way traffic pattern. These modifications have hindered the church’s ability to host large events such as weddings and funerals, threatening its sustainability.

A major contributor to this event was The Joel DeBellefeuille Foundation, which played a pivotal role in securing the Freddie James Project as the evening’s star performance. Renowned for their energetic performances and exceptional talent, the group captivated the audience, encouraging them to rise to their feet, creating an unforgettable experience for attendees. The concert also featured various talented artists who generously donated their time to the cause, showcasing a collective effort to support St. Monica’s Church.

This event marks the second major contribution from The Joel DeBellefeuille Foundation to the NDG community since its establishment. Earlier in the year, the Foundation donated 100 whole frozen turkeys to local residents in need for Thanksgiving, further demonstrating its dedication to supporting the borough and its inhabitants.

Joel DeBellefeuille, the founder of the Foundation, commented on the event, stating “This event was a testament to the strength of the NDG community and its commitment to preserving vital spaces like St. Monica’s. While we’re thrilled to have supported this initiative, it’s crucial that city council listens to residents and works toward solutions that balance community needs with urban development. Institutions like St. Monica’s shouldn’t have to rely solely on community-driven efforts to stay afloat.”

The Foundation’s involvement underscores its dedication to strengthening communities and addressing issues that matter most to residents. The success of the event highlighted the urgent need for collaborative solutions to ensure the long-term viability of cultural and spiritual spaces like St. Monica’s Church. As attendees left the concert, they exchanged enthusiastic farewells, a stark contrast to the polite greetings shared upon their arrival. n