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Image from Alberta Government

Province moving forward with 50-bed recovery community in Lethbridge

Jul 19, 2021 | 11:03 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – A new recovery community will be built in Lethbridge.

Built on the Government of Alberta land adjacent to Fresh Start Recovery Centre, the province says it will give the centre a country-like setting that will allow participants to focus on their health, wellness and long-term recovery.

An extra $300,000 to add 11 publicly funded residential recovery treatment beds was also given to Lethbridge’s Southern Alcare Manor.

Mike Ellis, associate minister of mental health and addictions, says the community will give people a fresh start.

“Supporting recovery-oriented solutions that create real change is the top priority of Alberta’s government. The new recovery community in Lethbridge, as well as the new residential recovery spaces at Southern Alcare Manor, will give people struggling with mental health addiction a way out – one that will actually support long-term, holistic recovery.”

The release says these recovery communities are the first of their kind in Alberta.

“Locating Lethbridge’s new recovery community adjacent to an existing addiction treatment facility will help promote a sense of community, mutual support, and collaboration.”

Not only will the centre give people a place to recover, but it will also create approximately 100 jobs. Once operational, it is anticipated the recovery community will employ approximately 80 Albertans on an ongoing basis.

The price tag for the project currently sits at a $140-million commitment.

This funding also includes $40 million specifically to support the opioid response.