Montreal phases out its baby box program for new parents, redirecting resources to urgent issues like homelessness, housing, and public security.

What Were Baby Boxes?

The initiative, introduced several years ago under the previous administration, offered kits valued at around $200. These contained essential local items such as reusable swim diapers, therapeutic teddy bears, and tickets to Space for Life museums. Modeled after successful programs in Finland and Scotland, the boxes aimed to support families raising newborns in the city.

Reasons for the Shift

City spokesperson Gonzalo Nunez explains that officials reviewed the program’s costs and opted to address more critical social challenges while optimizing finances. The baby boxes no longer feature in the long-term budget.

Gradual Phase-Out Plan

Distribution continues for now. The city secured an agreement with supplier Veille sur toi to produce a final batch of 4,000 boxes in 2026. Nunez calls this a “gradual phase-out” to ensure a “harmonious contract termination” and reduce material waste.

Eligible new parents can collect remaining kits from municipal libraries until supplies run out. The contract ends December 31, with all associated costs covered by the current budget. Under Mayor Soraya Martinez Ferrada, the council reallocates funds to vital public services.

Former Mayor Valérie Plante highlighted the program during her 2021 re-election campaign.