The Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre helps youth (13-21years) and families across Ontario overcome substance use, mental health and related issues.
Cindy Manor, Senior Director of Philanthropy, made a presentation on Mar 10, 2021 to Stittsville Rotary about the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre (DSYTC) which is a residential addiction and mental health treatment centre established in 1993 for youth )13-21) and families. It is a non-profit, community-based agency that helps youth (13-21 years) and families overcome substance use, mental health and related issues.
The vision of the DSYTC is that of healthy, resilient youth and families who have hope and life skills for creating a positive future. Their facilities are in 3 locations: Carp campus (10 beds for females), Carleton Place (14 beds for males) and Stittsville (aftercare and admin). The program is fully funded by the government.
The process starts with a comprehensive assessment and a stay of up to 3 months, after which there is an aftercare program of 3 months. The youth receive individualized programming and can earn high school credits and participate in recreation activities. Nurse practitioners and psychiatric services are available as required to meet mental health needs. Families are able to receive parent education, crisis support and counselling.
Cindy commented that 2020 has been a very difficult year for the centre as social restrictions for the pandemic mandated that the number of clients be reduced by one-half and their programming was greatly affected also. At the same time, there has been an overall increase in drug addiction and mental health issues over the past year resulting in a greater need for their services. Isolation has been a major factor in creating stress, anxiety and mental health issues for youth.
She described her family’s good experiences with the Centre and the success of her son in overcoming addiction and mental health issues. “A safe place for a fresh start” accurately describes what the Centre has to offer and what her family experienced.
Looking forward, work is already underway on a major capital project to move all 3 current locations into one building on 25 acres. Phase 1 has been completed and they are now ready for Phase 2 to start construction on the building. Cindy expects an announcement shortly about funding from the provincial government. www.davesmithcentre.org