A Light in the Darkest Moments

"Portage was a huge stepping stone for coming out of the darkest spot of my life. At a time when I thought I meant nothing, I was shown empathy and learned life skills I never thought I’d achieve in this lifetime. What helped me the most was meeting other people who had similar traumas that addiction can bring, and sharing my story with people whose goal was the same as mine: finding purpose in being sober and learning to heal from my past.

Portage is much more than a rehabilitation centre. It is a home to many like me who never felt like they had a home, and overall a beacon of light in the darkness of addiction.

Congratulations to Portage for its 30-year anniversary — I’m honored to be part of what Portage represents."

— Sincerely, Mikala, alumni

Clarity and control came when I finally chose to work on myself.

"Before going to Portage, I was in a bad place. I felt lost, had very little control over my life, and kept making decisions without thinking about the consequences. At Portage, I learned how to slow down and actually work on myself. The program gave me structure, helped me take responsibility, and showed me healthier ways to deal with things instead of falling into the same patterns.

Since finishing the program, I feel much more clear‑headed and in control. I’m making better choices and trying to move my life in a more positive direction. Portage is important to me not just because it helped me change my life, but also because of the community and the staff there. Being surrounded by people who were going through similar struggles made me feel understood and less alone.

I’ve now been sober for one year and six months. Happy 30th, Portage!"

– Kenneth, alumni

My Real-Life Superheroes

"When James was very young, he would often ask me, “Mom, if you could be any superhero or have any superpower in the world, what would it be?”

I could never come up with an answer, since I wasn’t much into superhero movies…

Today, I finally have one: my superheroes are the Communities at Portage and the staff.

The therapeutic community approach you have is amazing — seeing those kids help and support each other is incredible.

We are truly very thankful for you being there for James and for us, any time, day or night. We learned so much through the Parent Support Groups. There is no other support like it.

Again, thank you for giving us our son back. His sister has her brother back, James's kids have their father back, and his girlfriend has her partner back.

Congratulations to Portage Atlantic on its 30-year anniversary — we are grateful to be part of its story."

— Sincerely, Parent of an alumni

Working with youth for 24 years has brought both challenges and deeply rewarding moments. It has been incredibly fulfilling to watch young people overcome their struggles and grow into confident, contributing individuals.

Portage is important to me because it helped me get sober from drugs and learn better habits and skills. From my experience in the program, I have learned many skills, for example communicating effectively, being organized and orderly, being self-aware and confident.

The support I received has helped me get sober, get through my relapses and slips, learn new skills for everyday life, and talk about how I am feeling.

While staying at Portage, I learned many things about myself: I enjoy reading and writing, I love music, making new friends and connections, and I have discovered that I am quite comedic.

I find that I grew here in many ways. I have better relationships with my friends and family, I’ve been staying sober, I am much more mature, and I’m not trying to be someone I’m not.

Congratulations to Portage and the staff for the 30-year anniversary. I am very grateful to be involved with this program. It has done so much for me and my family, and I cannot thank it enough.