Province gives green light to support the recovery of youth across Ottawa
CARP – The Government of Ontario is investing in a brand-new facility for the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre (DSYTC) that will support youth aged 13-21 struggling with addiction. The DSYTC was established in 1993 and has supported thousands of young people on their journey to recovery.
“The Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre is a beacon of hope for families whose children are struggling with addiction, and this funding is critical to ensuring that the growing demand for services is addressed,” said Dr. Merrilee Fullerton, MPP for Kanata-Carleton. “Now more than ever we need to make sure that young people have the resources they need to recover so that they are supported to live full, healthy lives.”
The Ministry of Health approved the stage 4.1 Working Drawings & Specifications submission which is the next step in the building process. The new facility is planned to open its doors in Fall 2023 and will be located here in Carp.
“The pandemic has exacerbated the addictions crisis across the province, which is why this investment is essential to support the recovery and mental health of youth across Ottawa,” said Michael Tibollo, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions. “Our government has made significant investments in mental health and ensuring that youth are supported remains a key priority for all of us.”
DSYTC programs and services include: comprehensive assessment, 3-month live-in treatment, 3-month post-live-in continuing care as well as family services (education, counselling, support). A professional referral is not required to attain services and there are no formal fees required to access DSYTC programming.
“We are incredibly grateful for this investment which will mean more treatment beds and shorter wait times for youth in crisis”, said Steve Bell, Chair of the Board. “The new centre will be designed to create the best possible conditions for client recovery and family support for decades to come.”
“Today’s announcement is wonderful news for Ontario youth and families, said Mike Beauchesne, Executive Director. “As we celebrate this investment our thoughts are also with our late founder and tremendous source of inspiration, Dave Smith, without whom today would not have been possible.”