Visit of the National Director of Youth Protection to Portage Lac Écho

February 21, 2025 – The Portage centre at Lac Écho welcomed Ms. Lesley Hill, National Director of Youth Protection (DPJ) and Associate Deputy Minister - Ministry of Health and Social Services. This visit is part of an approach to gain a deeper understanding of the services offered by Portage to youth with substance use and mental health challenges.

Meeting with the residents

The day began with a lunch where Ms. Hill had the opportunity to engage directly with two residents from the adolescent and young adult program. They shared their experiences within the program before giving her a guided tour of the centre's facilities, providing an authentic perspective on their therapeutic journey.

A moving testimony

The visit continued with a particularly impactful moment: the heartfelt testimonial of a former resident. Diane, a graduate of the Mother and Child program and now an employee at the adult day program in Montreal, shared her recovery journey with moving sincerity.

"Portage taught me that I am capable of standing up for myself, that I have the right to take my place, to make my own decisions," she shared emotionally. "I have found a lifelong family. I am proud of myself. I feel grateful. The program is tattooed on my heart."

Diane completed her program with her son alongside her, who was cared for at La Rimbabelle, Portage’s subsidized daycare. "Having my son with me made all the difference," she shared.

Programs tailored to youth needs

The visit continued with a detailed presentation of the various programs Portage offers to adolescents and young adults, particularly at the Saint-Malachie and Lac Écho centres. As highlighted by the staff during the meeting, these programs address the multiple challenges youth face by providing a structured environment and personalized support, integrating addiction treatment with a personalized educational program.

Strengthening partnerships to better support youth

Ms. Hill’s visit demonstrates the government's commitment to maintaining an open and constructive dialogue with Portage to strengthen access to specialized services for youth and ensure an effective continuum of care. This visit provides insight into the daily realities of the youth in recovery and highlights the positive impact of Portage's therapeutic programs, particularly in a context where mental health and addiction challenges among youth are on the rise.

We warmly thank Ms. Hill for her visit. Her commitment demonstrates the importance that the government places on the well-being and recovery of young Quebecers with substance use disorders and mental health challenges.

Cover Photo (Left to Right):

• Lesley Hill – National Director of Youth Protection, Associate Deputy Minister, Former Commissioner of the Special Commission on the Rights of Children and Youth Protection
• Genevieve Lefebvre – President and CEO, Portage
• Cindy Chabot – Director of the Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Portage Saint-Malachie
• Caroline Gélinas – Interim Senior Director of Operations
• Allan Farkas – National Director of Admissions & Community Relations
• Patrick Varin – Director of the Adolescent and Young Adult Program, Portage Lac Écho