Support services showcased at Swisha celebration
Debbie Foley
Published in the Pontiac Journal on June 4, 2025.
RAPIDES-DES-JOACHIMS – On Friday, May 30, the Community Futures Development Corporation (SADC) marked its 40th anniversary with a community event in Rapides-des-Joachims. Several local and regional support organizations were also on hand to inform residents about services available across Quebec.
The SADC provides financing options, expert guidance, and personalized support to help entrepreneurs succeed. SADC Pontiac continues to foster business development in the region, offering coaching, mentoring, technical assistance, training on Quebec laws,
digital marketing, e-commerce, and help with permits.
Other participating organizations included:
- Carrefour jeunesse emploi, which supports residents aged 15 to 65 with employment skills, returning to school, volunteering, and job market access.
- L’EntourElle, a shelter offering counselling, guidance, and support for women, with or without children, in difficult situations.
- Employment and Social Assistance Quebec, helping social assistance recipients transition into the workforce.
- Maison de la Famille, offering parenting support, workshops, community meals, clothing donations, and the Snowsuit Fund for low-income families.
- TransporAction Pontiac, providing rural transportation for medical and social needs.
- Bouffe Pontiac, delivering food, clothing, school and holiday programs, and fresh produce via community gardens.
- AutonHomme Pontiac, offering mental health support, suicide prevention, tax help, and resource referrals, primarily for men.
- Western Quebec Literacy Council, assisting English speakers of all ages with literacy, job skills, and tutoring.
- Connexions Resource Centre, helping anglophones access health and
social services in English. - The MRC, offering resources on tourism, fire prevention, environmental protection,
and currently developing a search and rescue operation for the ZECs in the area.
A free barbecue accompanied the event, which drew strong participation
from local residents.