The residents, homeless for various reasons, spend a few days or a few months living together. To some of them, communal life is intimidating, therefore, their fears have to be banished, their prejudices swept away, and opportunities for reconciliation have to be created. Every day the staffers weave themselves into a supporting fabric, strengthening each resident's desire to get through it all, no matter how difficult or numerous the constraints. Letting each set her own pace, we must assure them all of continuing support through high and low points on the torturous road to an improvement in their life conditions.

The team at Auberge Madeleine includes 9 full-time staff, an experienced cook, an administrative assistant, a fund raiser, a director, a caretaker, and a group of part-time replacements. All are called upon to improve the conditions of life of the residents. Each in her own way, and in various degrees, steps into the life of those for whom the Auberge exists. The strengh of the team is derived from solidarity.

The Board of Directors is composed of people who are deeply involved in their community and share the feminist perspective in helping homeless women. Its role is to ensure that the Auberge carries out its mandate. There are staff and client representatives on the Board.

There are now about 40 volunteers who, through various tasks, make an important contribution to Auberge Madeleine. Without their valued help, some things just could not be done. Among volunteer jobs: helping in the kitchen, being with the residents during staff meetings, animating group activities, translating documents, helping out on the computer, for fundraising events and in the mailing of the newsletter.