Minister of Mental Health and Addiction Dan Williams announcing details of the new Blood Tribe Recovery Community, July 19, 2023. (Photo: Government of Alberta - YourAlberta on YouTube)

By Christian Oldale/LethbridgeNewsNOW

Construction begins on Blood Tribe Recovery Community

Jul 19, 2023 | 12:59 PM

CARDSTON, AB – Construction has begun on a new recovery community in southern Alberta.

Alberta’s government is partnering with the Blood Tribe to build the Blood Tribe Recovery Community. Officials broke ground on the facility on July 19.

The province is investing $30 million to construct the 75-bed centre, which is the first Indigenous-led recovery community. The site will be run by the Blood Tribe Department of Health, and is one of 11 new recovery communities coming to the province.

Dan Williams, minister of mental health and addiction said, “Today’s ground breaking is an exciting milestone towards increasing addiction treatment in Alberta that is truly built for those most in need. As part of our commitment to land-based treatment, we have ensured that every aspect of this new building was designed in collaboration with the Blood Tribe.”

The Blood Tribe Recovery Community is the first of four recovery communities to be built in collaboration with First Nations partners. Facilities with the Enoch Cree Nation, Tsuut’ina Nation and Siksika Nation are also in progress.

WHAT'S ON

Here is what's on this weekend in Medicine Hat and area: Dec. 13-15

10h ago

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Mustard Seed adding new shelter spaces at Alberta government's request

Dec 12, 2024

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner, applications due Friday

Dec 12, 2024

Joseph Schow, MLA for Cardston-Siksika, said the community will have a great impact on the area. He noted, “Kainai Nation and Alberta’s government are building a culturally sensitive system of addiction treatment that uplifts and empowers communities.”

Schow added, “I’m honoured to have this vital service delivered in my constituency and I look forward to witnessing the positive impact of the Blood Tribe Recovery Community on the lives of those seeking healing and hope.”

Construction is expected to be complete in late 2024 with clients entering soon after.