Update: August 2025 – The campaign goal was surpassed thanks to additional contributions. Portage was proud to inaugurate the new Marcelle and Jean Coutu pavilion on May 6, at the Lac Écho residential centre in Prévost, which is home to adolescents and young adults struggling with addiction. The former building, which dated to 1939,… Read more »
Each year during National Volunteer Week, Portage Atlantic recognizes the tireless dedication of Volunteers that contribute to the success of the youth and the Portage program. This years’ celebration, which took place at the Portage Atlantic Centre, included speeches, awards, treats and a fun gardening activity to recognize our incredible volunteers. The seeds started during… Read more »
The residents of Portage Saint-Malachie had the opportunity to take part in educational activities aimed at better understanding the electoral issues and evaluating the voting options available to them. We would like to thank two parents involved in the family support group, who met with the Saint-Malachie community to talk about politics. These two parents… Read more »
On April 24, Vicki Grondin shared her story on CFAI FM, speaking with great sincerity about her journey toward recovery. She reflected on the challenges she faced while struggling with substance use, and on how the Portage Atlantic program for adolescents and young adultsat Cassidy Lake played a key role in her journey toward a… Read more »
On April 1st, adolescents and young adults from the Portage program at the Lac Écho residential centre took part in a memorable activity that energized both their mind and body. That morning, Mr. Éric Lécuyer, Director of the RNA Biology Research Unit at the Clinical Research Institute of Montreal (IRCM), introduced our young residents to… Read more »
I started drinking when I was only nine years old, under pressure from my own mother. As I got older, I learned to self-harm for the numbness I craved. At just 14, I started using drugs. Some might say my consumption wasn’t severe, and my close family and friends never realized I had a problem…. Read more »
At Portage Atlantic, recovery is not just about sobriety, it’s also about rebuilding lives and futures. That’s why the Youth Skilled Trades Exploration Program (STEP) pilot was launched: to give youth in treatment the chance to gain meaningful, hands-on experience in skilled trades while working on their personal growth. The STEP is a powerful partnership… Read more »
I arrived at Portage as an altered and damaged version of myself, filled with anger and continuous reckless behavior. During the year leading up to my admission date, my world seemed to be crumbling around me. I blamed everyone but myself and dove deeper into my addiction. When it was first suggested I should go… Read more »
The Portage Lac Écho Centre provides a space where young people can learn to rebuild their lives and lead a substance-free life. This article explores the positive impact of a rehabilitation program that blends education and therapy, based on the testimonial of a young resident and by Maura, a teacher at Portage. A Young Resident’s… Read more »
Mental health and addiction challenges are affecting a growing number of young people, often leaving families and loved ones feeling overwhelmed by complex situations. In these moments of uncertainty, having access to the right support at the right time can make all the difference. In an effort to increase accessibility and proximity of services, Portage… Read more »
