205 Portage graduates start a new chapter

MONTRÉAL, Nov. 6, 2016 /CNW Telbec/ - 205 individuals were recognised at Portage's 43^nd annual Recognition Ceremony today for having overcome their drug addiction problems at one of Portage's addiction treatment centres in the Montréal region. Proud parents, friends, staff members, and partners gathered at Place des Arts to applaud the graduates for all the hard work they put into their recovery and to celebrate their new healthy and positive lifestyles.

Diplomas were awarded to the graduates of Portage's five addiction rehabilitation programs in the Greater Montréal region: three at the lac Écho campus (for adults, francophone adolescents, and anglophone adolescents) as well as the Mother and Child Program and the Mentally Ill Chemical Abusers (MICA) Program.

"You are an example for every one of us. You are part of the continuing story of Portage and you mark the end of a chapter to start over a new one, full of promises", stated Mr. Peter Howlett, President of Portage. He also took the opportunity to recognise all the staff members present, who work tirelessly with the residents.

The Mother and Child Program, which celebrated its 20^th anniversary this year, was highlighted at the ceremony. The testimony of Émy, daughter of one of the program's first resident, reminded the importance of this unique program, which allows women to ask for help without the fear of being separated from their children. One of the great moments of the event was the presentation of emotional statements of graduates' children.

The ceremony also featured testimonials and musical performances, like the percussionists Zuruba, the pianist Isabelle Mathieu and the talented graduates, and concluded with a shower of balloons and diplomas on a stage full of graduates – happy, strong and hopeful for the future.

About Portage

Portage has helped tens of thousands of people overcome drug addiction since its first centre was opened in 1973.  It provides a range of services adapted to the needs of its various clienteles: adults, adolescents, pregnant women and mothers with young children, and people with mental illness. Portage operates nine addiction rehabilitation programs in Québec (Montréal, Québec City, and Saint-Malachie) and two others in New Brunswick and Ontario.

For more information, please visit www.portage.ca

SOURCE Portage

For further information: Seychelle Harding, Director of Communications - Portage, Cell: 514-754-6675, Email: [e-mail]; Marco Parent, Volunteer, TACT Intelligence Conseil, Cellular : 514 349-7778, Email : [e-mail]