Over a year ago, the Government of Alberta opened the Lethbridge Recovery Community, a world-class facility offering life-saving addiction treatment to Albertans in need. It has provided more than 110 Albertans with long-term addiction treatment.
The Alberta Recovery Model is a system of care that helps people overcome the disease of addiction and supports them in their pursuit of recovery. The province is focused on expanding services that offer prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery.
Construction on the Lethbridge Recovery Community began in spring 2022. The 50-bed facility had a total capital investment of $19 million and opened its doors in September 2023.
Clients of the recovery community receive life-saving addiction treatment at no cost and can stay for up to one year if their situation requires. The average length of stay at the Lethbridge Recovery Community is about four months.
At each of the recovery communities the province has built or will build, residential treatment focuses on mental health and wellbeing, individual and group therapy, development of healthy habits and social skills, employment training and other supports that put people on a pathway of success. These programs help Albertans become healthy members of society.
The Lethbridge Recovery Community is operated by Fresh Start Recovery and serves men 18 years of age or older. Their next-door facility supports women in their pursuit of recovery, as well.
“Over this past year, we’ve seen lives change. These personal journeys reflect a shared dedication to holistic recovery and creating a stronger, more resilient community,” says Bruce Holstead, executive director of Fresh Start Recovery.
A Lethbridge Recovery Community client says with the support of the staff and the community, they’re beginning to face their past and make real changes. “Recovery is giving me the tools I need for this journey and I’m genuinely excited to keep growing and moving forward with their help.”
Another Lethbridge client says the recovery community changed their life. “From the moment I entered treatment, I found a supportive environment that felt like home. I return for weekly alumni and milestone meetings, welcoming new members. Whenever I need to reconnect, I know I can return, confident support is always available and I no longer feel alone.”
