MONTREAL - The Montreal charity Dans La Rue is well known for its work with homeless children.
Father Emmett "Pops" Johns launched the organization in 1988 from behind the wheel of a van.
But the charity has grown to include a shelter, a day centre, and a full-sized motor home, all used to help young people build their self-esteem and get off the streets.
Kelley was homeless at age 17 when she started taking part in Dans La Rue's music therapy program.
Nine years later, she's still taking part.
"The people who come here, they have hard lives. They live on the streets and sometimes they deal with a lot of problems. And when they come down here I see them forget all about it. They just give themselves to the music and let themselves have fun," said Kelley.
The program helps homeless youth get in touch with their musical sides.
They don't need to know how to play, because they learn techniques as they take part.
Another homeless youth, Fred, says playing bongos and learning to stay synchronized with fellow musicians has improved his ability to talk to others.
"It's like a musical conversation," said Fred.
Music therapist Julien Peyrin, who runs the program, has three strict rules.
"Show up on time, be sober, and respect the instruments," Peyrin said.
For some of the students those are big challenges, but the payoff can be impressive.
"Music can really help young people to succeed in life. It helps their self-esteem, it helps them vent their frustrations and it gives them a channel to express themeselves," said Peyrin.
Kelley is a prime example. She recently landed a full time job as a music technician
"I had a chance to meet Hedley and Our Lady Peace at le Festival des Montgolfieres. That was a really exciting experience!" said Kelley.
