For individuals living with an intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, or severe behavioral disorders.
At the Massena Foundation, we believe that every person deserves to reach their full potential, whatever their challenges.
Our mission is rooted in experience and solidarity: we support individuals living with an intellectual disability (ID), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), or severe behavioral disorder (SBD), as well as those around them — families, caregivers, and friends — by offering respite, tailored support, and pathways to greater social inclusion.
We take action to combat isolation, challenge prejudice, and develop sustainable solutions in collaboration with the community, health, education, and employment sectors.
“A helping hand — a gesture toward a more humane future.”
Who we are
The Massena Foundation is a family story.
Driven since childhood by a mission passed down from mother to daughter, Stephanne Massena — a Haitian woman and founder of the Massena Residences — has dedicated her life to supporting people in situations of profound vulnerability.
From foster caregiver to director of residential homes and a day activity center, her journey has been shaped by empathy, hands-on experience, and a deeply human vision. The Foundation strives to create environments where everyone can thrive with dignity, autonomy, and respect.
Building on this lived experience, the Foundation aims to go even further. We aspire to be an accessible organization, attuned to realities on the ground, led by committed individuals determined to make a real difference in real lives.
We work to break down systemic barriers, raise awareness, and build lasting partnerships, so that everyone can find their place and move forward with dignity.
A foundation rooted in experience and commitment.
Our Vision: Dignity, Autonomy and Commitment
We aspire to become a pan-Canadian reference in the support and empowerment of people in highly vulnerable situations. In collaboration with the healthcare, education, community, and employment sectors, we aim to build safe and meaningful environments — places where everyone can flourish, be recognized, and grow with dignity, autonomy, and respect.
Values that stand the test of time
- Dignity: Every person deserves to be treated with respect, whatever their challenges
- Empathy: A foundation born of experience, which places listening and understanding at the heart of its action
- EDIA: Developing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility at the heart of our thinking
- Safety: Offering a safe environment on the physical, emotional and relational levels
- Commitment: A deep social commitment to the recognition and rights of vulnerable people
Our actions for social and professional inclusion
At the Massena Foundation, we believe that small, compassionate gestures can transform lives.
Our actions focus on four main areas:
- Fostering social inclusion and autonomy, by valuing each person’s skills, contributions, and personal growth.
- Promoting a deeply human mission rooted in field experience, to encourage closeness, humility, and real-world impact.
- Becoming an inspiring role model, especially for those — including women from diverse backgrounds — who wish to engage in social change or philanthropy.
- Building a caring, supportive community, where everyone has a place and a voice.
Together, let’s support families by offering respite, listening, and practical resources to lighten their load. Let’s change perceptions to build a more inclusive world and transform lives.
Standing with families and caregivers across Quebec
Whether you’re a citizen moved by our mission, a company determined to make a difference, or simply someone ready to take meaningful action, there’s a place for you by our side.
Every gesture counts: a donation, a partnership, or simply adding your voice to ours to help build a fairer, more inclusive future.
United in support of the Foundation
Here are committed partners who share the values and mission of the Massena Foundation.
Join the Massena Foundation
Don’t hesitate to reach out. Behind every email or form, there’s a caring person ready to respond with kindness.