Port Alberni support recovery & stabilization beds

PORT ALBERNI – Residents in Port Alberni who face multiple barriers due to mental health and substance use challenges will soon have access to short-term residential recovery support and stabilization.

 “A good community cares for its more vulnerable members, and a major priority for government is to enhance the substance use and mental health services we provide to those individuals facing these challenges,” said Health Minister Terry Lake. “Our goal is to ensure those with multiple barriers or homelessness are provided with the wrap-around, personalized help they need to live productive, healthy lives.”

Island Health issued a Request for Proposals today seeking a partner to provide a home-like, supportive, structured care environment for up to five people at a time, to be staffed 24 hours per day, 365 days of the year.  The beds will improve access to substance use services for those in the community who are homeless or without a source of income.

“These five beds will support clients during their early phases of recovery from an addiction, and will provide a space where clients’ basic needs can be met to facilitate recovery,” said Keva Glynn, Island Health Director of Mental Health and Substance Use Strategic and Tertiary Services. “A key barrier for clients in Port Alberni is limited access to supportive, safe housing. There are times when clients are assessed as sufficiently medically stable to enter detox, but detoxing in their own home is not viable due to unsuitable housing situations. It is well known that stable housing and a supportive environment post detox reduces the risk of relapse.”

Stabilization and Supportive Recovery includes accommodation and related recovery support in a substance-free environment for up to 30 days (stabilization) and up to 90 days (supportive recovery). Services will include coaching for daily living, community reintegration, counselling and case management. The preferred location/facility will deliver client-centred substance use focused services with the ability to support both stabilization and recovery-based care.

The facility will accommodate clients of any gender, and is intended to address the unique cultural needs of Port Alberni and the surrounding area.  Specifically, staff will be required to demonstrate a high level of cultural competency in Aboriginal history and culture, and a deep understanding of holistic forms of wellness and healing. 

The RFP is posted on the BCBID website,  and closes at 2 pm August 14, 2015.

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Central/North Island media inquiries

Valerie Wilson
Manager, Regional Communications
Phone: 250.739.6303
email: valerie.wilson@viha.ca