“The Mother and Child Program gave me renewed confidence and stability”

Living in a supervised apartment  at HCP1 (Habitations Communautaires Portage) was above all an important part of proving to youth protection authorities that I could be trusted with full custody of my two children. Had I not been approved for a supervised apartment, I would likely not have earned the same level of trust and not been given full custody.

The mothers at HCP1 have all been through similar life experiences and completed their therapy program. Moreover, we share a common goal: to stay sober and surround ourselves with community rather than living in isolation. We’re all part of a large family so that, in a way, we are continuing our therapy program, using the tools acquired during our stay at Portage.

We maintain a clean and healthy living environment, and because rent is low, we can start paying back our debts and living without fear of not being able to feed our children. What I like most about living here is that our children can feel at home wherever they go in the building and when one of us feels overwhelmed, there’s always someone to give us a bit of a break. The bond between mothers is very strong. Most of us are single parents and we understand each other. We’ve seen each other cry because we’re so tired or laugh when our children throw a temper tantrum. We get together for meals, go to the museum or park, and so much more.

What’s great is we don’t have to worry about who’s going to babysit our children on Wednesday evenings because we have fantastic babysitters to take care of them in our beautiful, customized community room. And let’s not forget the counsellors! They take care of us, prepare our care plans and do regular follow-ups, but most of all, they see us as members of a family. We also have support groups with a sexologist and meetings with an accountant. We are given everything we need so that we can leave HCP1 without feeling stressed and knowing that we’ve made friends with whom we can build trusting relationships.

I feel so safe here that I would gladly stay for the rest of my life. I’ve lived in my supervised apartment with my two sons for a year now and we’re starting to look for a new nest for our little family because there’s a constant turnover as other mothers in need arrive. We can count on help and encouragement as we look for a new place to live, as long as we continue to pursue and meet our objectives.

I’m so grateful to be here with my children, in such a supportive community, having made lasting friendships and met nearly all my objectives before I leave. As the oldest resident at HCP1, I can continue to be a role model for those who are just settling in and give them hope. Most of all, I can show them that the Portage therapy program really does work!

Thank you, Portage. We love you.
Théo, Alexis et Janie

Testimonial by Janie, Social Reintegration Program, Portage Mother and Child  and HCP1 resident