Sun Youth is honouring the life and legacy of its co-founder Sid Stevens on Thursday evening, on the first anniversary of his death. Stevens died on Aug. 17, 2025, at the age of 85. He dedicated more than 70 years of his life to helping Montreal’s children and youth. The organization said it was bringing together Stevens’ family, friends and colleagues, as well as members of the Sun Youth community who were touched by the late community leader. Stevens co-founded Sun Youth in 1954 alongside Earl De La Perralle. The community organization provides food, clothing, financial assistance and youth programs to thousands of Montrealers each year. The event will be hosted by award-winning broadcast professional Eramelinda Boquer and will feature special guest speakers, including Montreal police (SPVM) Chief Fady Dagher, city councillor and member of Montreal’s Executive Committee Benoit Langevin, and former MNA for Westmount–Saint-Louis Jacques Chagnon. Stevens was elected to city council in 1978. He also created Quebec’s first food bank, launched services such as home deliveries for people with reduced mobility and led emergency relief efforts during major disasters, according to Sun Youth. “The evening will be an opportunity to remember Sid, share stories and celebrate the values that guided his life: generosity, compassion and a deep commitment to helping those in need,” the organization said in a press release. “In tribute to Sid’s roots on Montreal’s Main and his love for the city, guests will also come together over some of Montreal’s most iconic flavours, including world-renowned Schwartz’s smoked meat and St-Viateur bagels.”
