We Got Your Back (WGYB)
People helping people since 2014
Our History
We Got Your Back is a community support event started in 2014 to help people experiencing homelessness on the streets of Montreal to survive our harsh winters.
We walk the streets of Montreal to find people who are unsheltered, unhoused and/or experiencing homelessness who are in need of help and assistance.
We offer backpacks filled with essentials and a meal. We deliver them with the goal of letting people know they are not alone and that someone has their back.
Plan for 2026
This December 2026 our goal is to distribute 500 bags.
The latest homelessness count in 2025 from the ministry of health and social services of Quebec, the number of people experiencing homelessness has risen to 5036 people in Montreal. 822 of which were reported to be outdoors including encampments. This however is not the full picture… this count does not include people experiencing hidden homelessness or those they were not able to survey during the data collection period.
MSSS Homelessness Count Report
Our community organizations, shelters, and warming centers are unfortunately limited by funding and the ever growing demand due to the cost of living crisis. Year after year despite asking for support, they continue to be over capacity every winter and have to turn people away that are seeking help and support.
Until our community organizations are sufficiently and properly supported with the resources and funding they need to combat the homelessness crisis, WGYB will continue to offer bags of essentials.
Our bags are a last resort and should not be necessary as people should be prevented from ever having to spend a night on the street. We will continue to advocate for change until our bags are no longer needed.
Donate
Any amount helps us fill a bag for people who are most vulnerable this winter. No admin fees or cost, every dollar goes towards filling a bag.
- $25 to donate and fill an entire bag
- $7 to donate a new pair of socks, gloves, and a hat
- $5 to donate a hygiene kit or a warm meal
- $4 to donate an emergency warming kit