One Year of Support and Hope in Greater Moncton

As substance use and mental health concerns continue to affect many families across Greater Moncton, Portage Atlantic's Moncton Community Care Program is celebrating its first year of service. Created to provide accessible, community-based support for young people facing these challenges, the program has quickly become a trusted resource for youth and their families seeking guidance, support and hope.  

 

A First Year Marked by Meaningful Results 

Since opening its doors, the program has provided individual support to youth, offered parent support groups, delivered presentations in schools and community settings, and built strong relationships with organizations throughout the region. 

In its first year alone, the team: 

• conducted 117 individual meetings with youth; 

• welcomed 115 participants to parent support groups; 

• delivered 57 presentations and workshops in the community; 

• responded to 47 inquiries from youth seeking help or information. 

 

For Lisa Portelli, Centre Director at Portage Atlantic, the program's impact is reflected in the experiences of the youth and families it supports. 

"When a youth says, ‘I need help because I’m scared. I don’t want this life anymore,’ every moment counts. By meeting youth where they are and offering immediate, compassionate support, our counsellors can turn a moment of fear and uncertainty into an opportunity for recovery. Many of our team members bring lived experience and can genuinely relate to the challenges youth face, allowing them to build trust and form meaningful connections with youth. Together with our partners, we are helping young people and their families move beyond fear toward hope, healing and lasting change." 

 

A Strong Presence in the Community 

A key part of the program's success has been its focus on bringing support directly into the community. Through partnerships with schools, youth-serving organizations and local agencies, the Moncton Community Care Program is helping young people access services where they already are and when they need them most. 

Outreach activities conducted with youth, families and community partners have helped strengthen connections throughout the region and raise awareness of available resources. 

The program has also created a valuable space for parents and caregivers. Through support groups and workshops, families are able to connect with others who understand their experiences, reduce feelings of isolation and gain practical tools to support their children. 

 

Sue, a parent who participates in the program, describes the experience this way: 

"The friendships and connections formed through this group have truly become our village." 

For Nadine and her family, the support provided through the program came at a critical moment. 

"Portage supported our family when we felt overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. Their caring, non-judgmental approach made all the difference, helping my son regain stability and confidence while reminding us that recovery is possible." 

 

A Pathway to Additional Support 

For some youth, the Moncton Community Care Program also serves as a pathway to additional support, including Portage Atlantic's residential treatment program at Cassidy Lake. 

By helping youth and families better understand available options and what to expect, the program reduces anxiety and helps create a smoother transition when more intensive support is needed. 

 

Thank You to Those Who Make This Possible 

As the program celebrates its first anniversary, Portage also recognizes the many families, partners, staff members and donors who have contributed to its success. Their support has helped strengthen access to services and create new opportunities for youth and families across Greater Moncton. 

As the Moncton Community Care Program marks its first year of service, Portage Atlantic is also celebrating its 30th anniversary. For three decades, the organization has supported youth and families across New Brunswick through its residential treatment program at Cassidy Lake. Together, these services continue to provide hope, guidance and support to young people at every stage of their recovery journey. 

Learn More 

To learn more about the program and its impact, read the full news release: Read the News Release 

Looking for Support? 

The Moncton Community Care Program offers free, confidential and non-judgmental services for youth aged 14 to 21 and their families. No referral is required. 

Phone: 506-383-7328
Email: pamoncton@portage.ca
Learn more: https://portage.ca/en/atlantic/portage-atlantic-moncton-community-care-program/