The Mouvement d'entraide de Bellefeuille (M E B) is a Canadian nonprofit community organization established to promote solidarity and provide support services to the residents of Bellefeuille, Quebec. Incorporated in 1987, the organization has its roots in a grassroots response to the economic crisis of the early 1980s.

History

During the economic downturn in 1983, a group of concerned citizens in Bellefeuille gathered to find ways to assist individuals facing hardship. They conducted a comprehensive, volunteer-led household survey to identify community needs. The results revealed a notably low sense of community belonging among residents.

In autumn 1986, the Mouvement d'entraide de Bellefeuille was formally founded with the mission of fostering solidarity and mutual aid to address identified needs. A provisional board of directors comprising five members was established. By January 1987, the organization prioritized services for the elderly population.

Between February and March 1987, neighborhood meetings were held to further assess the needs of seniors. On March 31, 1987, a public assembly confirmed the direction to open a center dedicated to providing assistance, emergency help, and various services aimed at enabling seniors and retirees to live as fully as possible within Bellefeuille.

The process continued with the search for a facility in September 1987, followed by renovation and setup during September and October. The Mouvement d'entraide de Bellefeuille officially received its charter on October 26, 1987[1].

Services and Activities

M E B operates as a nonprofit community organization offering an array of services and activities primarily targeted toward senior citizens. Its offerings include:

• Food-related services such as "Popote santé" (nutritious meal delivery) provided four times a week.
• Regular social meal gatherings including lunch meetings held four times a week, weekly friendship breakfasts, thematic dinners (such as a sugar shack event), and a Christmas brunch.
• Recreational activities including card games like rummy, shuffleboard, Wii bowling, bocce, knitting, Pergamano (decorative parchment craft), and physical exercise adapted for seniors.
• Social and cultural engagement such as line dancing.

The organization promotes community integration and aims to enhance the quality of life for older adults by providing opportunities for socialization, nutrition, and physical activity[3].

Mission and Impact

Mouvement d'entraide de Bellefeuille focuses on developing community belonging and support networks among Bellefeuille residents, particularly seniors, to help them live independently and with dignity. Its establishment was a direct response to socioeconomic challenges faced by the community, demonstrating a grassroots model for local solidarity and mutual aid.

With its long-standing presence since 1987, M E B continues to serve as a vital community anchor, fostering social connections, providing essential services, and supporting the well-being of its members.

Business Registration Number: 894073899RR0001
Location: Bellefeuille, Quebec, Canada
Website: mouvementdentraide.org[1][3]