The Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre (DSYTC) came into being, as a result of the efforts of a group of dedicated parents and community leaders, spearheaded by restaurateur and philanthropist Dave Smith. This committed group lobbied tirelessly to secure base operational funding support from the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care as well as raise capital funds from the community in order to purchase a building.

With minimal fanfare, enthusiastic staff, and high hopes, the DSYTC first opened its doors in March 1993.  The Centre began providing assistance to some 120 youth and parents in year one, and today, with much creativity and commitment assists more than 700 people per year.

The programs and services offered by the DSYTC are in many ways unique to our community. For example, nowhere else can Anglophone youth in Eastern Ontario attend an intensive 5-day per week Day Program consisting of both substance abuse counselling and academic programming. 

Each day offers us the privilege to reach out to youth and transform lives, and we are humbled by this on-going opportunity and worthwhile mandate.