The Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre broke ground on the construction of its brand new treatment facility in Carp, Ontario, which will support Ontario youth aged 13 to 21 who are struggling with mental health and substance use issues.
Ottawa City News states that at the ground-breaking ceremony, the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre launched its Village of HOPE campaign to raise the remaining $4 million in donations from the community that it needs.
"The Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre will ensure children and youth have a place to turn when they need help. The centre provides hope for the families and the resources and support that recovering youth need to live full, healthy lives."
Member of Provincial Parliament for Kanata-Carleton | Merrilee Fullerton
The centre has already raised $16 million from donors and government funding, and is expected to open its doors in the fall of 2023.
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The new facility will bring all staff and clients together under one roof and will aim to enable a better delivery of enhanced programs and services. It will also help allow expanded treatment capacity by 25 per cent and reduced wait times.
"It's far more than just a building. It's a place where young people who are scared and traumatized will call home for months at a time as they work to heal, learn and recover. The expansion of beds will lead to reduced wait times and this is going to make a significant difference for youth and families who are looking for help."
Executive Director of the DSYTC | Mike Beauchesne
Ottawa Citizen reports that clients in the youth treatment centre remain in the residential program between 45 and 90 days and receive continuing care for a further 90 days or more. Treatment includes the following:
- Individualized plans
- Group therapy
- Activities including art, cooking and sports
Michael Tibollo, associate minister of mental health and addictions stated that the pandemic has certainly exacerbated the addictions crisis across the province and that is why this investment is essential to support the recovery and mental health of youth across Ottawa.