Montreal’s Alter-Mode Initiative Supports Immigrants Through Tailoring
A community centre in Montreal’s Parc-Extension neighbourhood offers newcomers an opportunity to display their sewing expertise while easing their transition to life in Canada. The Alter-Mode program runs at the Brique par brique community centre on the last Saturday of each month. Skilled seamstresses and tailors repair, modify, or repurpose donated clothing for local residents.
Participants receive cash donations from clients, calculated based on the repair time or materials required, according to project coordinator Arman Faruqui. This setup provides affordable wardrobe updates for the community and allows the women involved to earn income through their craft.
“Those cash donations go directly to the aunties,” Faruqui explained. “We’re thrilled to create a revenue stream for them, enabling work they love while earning with dignity.”
Personal Stories Inspire Community Involvement
Harjinder Kaur, a community coordinator at Brique par brique, draws from her own journey to encourage others. Having arrived in Montreal from India as a former teacher, she sought ways to contribute after discovering the centre. After volunteering for months, she secured a position there.
“It was a big opportunity for me and I was so happy,” Kaur shared. Now, she motivates newcomers by saying, “I always tell them, I was the same as you are right now. You’re going to be the way I am right now.”
Sustainable Fashion and Community Connections
Beyond economic benefits for immigrants, refugees, and newcomers, the program promotes eco-friendly fashion practices. Alter-Mode includes clothing alterations, upcycling, and a monthly swap event to reduce waste.
Eugenia Leavitt visited the centre on Beaumont Avenue with her daughter, drawn by their passion for second-hand items. “We don’t want to throw clothing away,” she said, noting how swaps refresh wardrobes sustainably. She also enjoys observing the tailors’ techniques: “It’s super exciting because they have all these skills; they can fix things, but they can also restyle and add a special touch to it.”
Laura Mousaraganyi joined to donate clothes and engage locally. “I just like any opportunity I have to connect with people, connect with the community,” she stated. “And it’s important for newcomers to feel welcome and integrated into their new society.”
Faruqui plans to grow the Alter-Mode initiative, aiming to host additional events to broaden its impact.
