PROJECT HOPE YOUTH TREATMENT SPACES ARE OPEN IN PRINCE ALBERT

Six interim youth treatment beds opened in Prince Albert on April 27th thanks to Project Hope. The spaces at the Pineview Youth Centre complement the 12 existing youth treatment spaces already in Saskatoon, the six youth stabilization spaces recently opened at Calder Centre in Saskatoon, and the six secure care youth detoxification beds recently opened at the Paul Dojack Centre in Regina.

"It is imperative that youth have safe places to receive treatment for drug and alcohol addiction," Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley said. "Our government is proud to announce the opening of these treatment spaces a full two years ahead of schedule. The services provided at Pineview Youth Centre are part of a continuum of care for youth that includes prevention and education initiatives, detoxification and stabilization services, and community-based programming."

The six youth treatment beds are part of Project Hope, a three-year plan using a comprehensive, integrated approach to the prevention and treatment of substance abuse. The beds are available on an interim basis. Discussions continue with the Prince Albert Grand Council regarding the development of a permanent 15-bed treatment facility.

"This is another important step to address the pain caused by addictions for many families," Prince Albert Parkland Health Region CEO Cecile Hunt said. "I am very proud of our Health Region staff who, in partnership with the Prince Albert Grand Council and Saskatchewan Health, worked very hard to develop this program in a very short period of time."

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For More Information, Contact:

Kimberly Kratzig Health Regina Phone: (306) 787-4083

Doug Dahl Prince Albert Parkland Health Region Prince Albert Phone: (306) 765-6102