With fifteen of 17 beds are in place including half a dozen of Dawson Creek more doors are open for people in their community to find the support and treatment they need.
"The addition of these beds is an important step in ensuring that more individuals who face addiction challenges can access the supports they need in a timely way, and in their own community. I am grateful for the investment and effort dedicated to expanding these supports across the North, said Colleen Nyce, chair of the board of directors, Northern Health.
Hawkfeather Peterson, regional peer co-ordinator, Northern Health said the needs of substance users accessing care are unique and personal, and in the midst of a devastating and deadly toxic drug crisis, ensuring that many pathways to well-being are supported and accessible is important.
"Substance users often meet barriers to accessing health care, and increasing services that are local provides options for a population facing great risk and harm."
"Local leaders and health professionals have long called for more mental-health and addictions support for people living in the North. This work is about our commitment to community and care, and these new beds will provide a crucial stepping-stone for people in recovery," said Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine in a statement.
Ciro Panessa, president and chief executive officer, Northern Health said the toxic drug crisis has had a significant impact across the North.
"The need for enhanced and expanded access to support in our communities is very real and these new beds will help to ensure that we have those supports in place for people who need them. I am proud of the work that has gone into bringing these supportive recovery beds to our communities."
The province says supportive recovery beds are being added in northern BC, with the following providers: Meltans Bridge in Dawson Creek (six beds), Quesnel Shelter and Support Society in Quesnel (two beds), Ksan House Society in Terrace (three beds), North Coast Transition Society in Prince Rupert (two beds), Gya'Wa'Tlaab Healing Centre Society in Kitimat (one bed) and Haida Gwaii Society for Community Peace in Haida Gwaii.
Two remaining beds will soon be operational in Fort St. John with the Governing Council of the Salvation Army in Canada.
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