Title Image
Image
Caption
The Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) officially closed at the end of 2024. The former site is now set to temporarily house wildfire evacuees.
Portal
Title Image Caption
The Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) officially closed at the end of 2024. The former site is now set to temporarily house wildfire evacuees. File photo/PortageOnline
Categories
Tags

The former Manitoba Developmental Centre (MDC) in Portage la Prairie will temporarily reopen to help house wildfire evacuees from across the province.

Portage Mayor Sharilyn Knox shared the update in Facebook post, stating the move is part of the provincial government’s emergency response to the growing number of displaced families.

“To help address the urgent need for temporary shelter, the Manitoba government is planning to reopen the site formerly known as MDC here in our community,” says Knox. “This is to be a short-term solution. While they continue to work to secure more appropriate accommodations.”


Related stories:


Working together to support evacuees

Knox notes the province is coordinating efforts with the City of Portage la Prairie and First Nations leadership.

“The province is working in partnership with both the City of Portage la Prairie and First Nations leadership to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for evacuees,” she remarks.

She acknowledges the complicated history of the facility, which officially closed at the end of 2024.

“We know the site's history and I want to assure you that the government is taking steps to ensure its temporary use respects the dignity of all individuals,” Knox continues.

The MDC was originally established in 1890 and at its peak housed more than a thousand residents. Over the decades, it served as a residential institution for people with intellectual disabilities but faced significant criticism for conditions and treatment of residents. Following years of public scrutiny, legal challenges, and evolving approaches to care, the centre officially closed its doors in late 2024, with residents transitioning to community-based support. The closure marked the end of a long chapter in Manitoba’s approach to disability care.

Portage residents asked for continued support

Knox closes her message with a thank-you to the community and a reminder that no public donations or volunteers are needed at this time.

“I want to thank you for your compassion and support as we continue to help those displaced by wildfires during this very difficult time,” she adds. “This is an ever-changing situation and we will continue to keep you up to date.”

“Lastly,” she mentions, “because I'm always asked, there is no request for donations or volunteers at this time.”


Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon. 

Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com.

PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.

Portal