A community center in Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighborhood offers newcomers a platform to display their sewing expertise while easing their transition to life in Canada. The Alter-Mode program occurs at the Brique par Brique community center on the last Saturday of each month, where skilled seamstresses and tailors repair, modify, or repurpose donated clothing from local residents.
Program Details and Economic Benefits
Participants in the initiative handle alterations and upcycling tasks, with donors contributing cash based on the time required or materials used for each job. Project coordinator Arman Faruqui explains that these donations provide direct income to the women involved. “Those cash donations go directly to the aunties,” Faruqui states. “We’re super happy to be generating a revenue stream for them, where they can be working on something they enjoy and earning money with dignity.” This setup not only offers affordable wardrobe updates for the community but also creates dignified earning opportunities for the participants.
Personal Stories of Inspiration
Harjinder Kaur, a community coordinator at Brique par Brique, draws from her own journey as a recent immigrant to encourage others. Originally a teacher in India, Kaur arrived in Montreal seeking support and ways to contribute. After volunteering for several months, she secured a position at the center. “I always tell them, I was the same as you are right now,” she shares. “You’re going to be the way I am right now.” Her experience highlights the program’s role in building confidence and integration for newcomers, immigrants, and refugees.
Sustainability and Community Engagement
Beyond economic support, Alter-Mode promotes sustainable fashion practices through upcycling and hosts clothing swaps to reduce waste. Eugenia Leavitt, a local resident, visited the center on Beaumont Avenue with her daughter to participate in the swap. “We don’t want to throw clothing away,” Leavitt says, noting how it refreshes wardrobes eco-friendly. She also appreciates observing the seamstresses’ craftsmanship: “It’s super exciting cause they have all these skills, they can fix things, but they can also restyle and add a special touch to it, so that can be cool to see.”
Laura Mousaraganyi attended to donate clothes and foster connections. “I just like any opportunity I have to connect with people, connect with the community,” she explains. “And it’s important for newcomers to feel welcome and integrated into their new society.” Faruqui aims to grow the program, planning additional events to broaden its reach and impact.
