Province supports Calgary Addictions Recovery Centre

June 26, 2009

Calgary… The Alberta government has partnered with Calgary’s Fresh Start Recovery Centre to purchase land and build a new treatment facility.

“Addictions are one of the main causes of homelessness and take a terrible toll on communities and families,” said Lindsay Blackett, Minister of Culture and Community Spirit. “The Government of Alberta is proud to support Fresh Start in its efforts to assist residents to re-enter society and maintain a sober lifestyle.”Funds will assist with the purchase of land and construction of a new recovery centre, including 50 residential treatment beds, kitchen, common dining and living facilities, recreation rooms, gym, and counselling rooms. The Fresh Start Recovery Centre provides abstinence-based addiction treatment to men who have made a commitment to end their addictions.

“Together we share a responsibility for and commitment to all members of our community, and the new Fresh Start Recovery Centre is a prime example of that commitment,” said Kyle Fawcett, MLA, Calgary-North Hill. “A number of organizations and individuals worked together on this important project, and I want to thank everyone for their hard work and co-operation.”

The provincial government contributed a total of $1 million to the project from its Major Community Facilities Program (MCFP). Started in 2007-08, the MCFP was a two-year $280-million lottery-funded program that helped municipalities, not-for-profit organizations and Aboriginal communities plan, upgrade or build major public-use facilities that enhance community life. Funds were provided on a matching basis, meaning a great deal of community support was required to make the grant possible.

The Government of Alberta has a wide variety of community investment programs that create stronger and safer communities. For more information, visit www.culture.alberta.ca.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Beryl Cullum
Communications
Culture and Community Spirit
780-427-6530

To call toll free within Alberta dial 310-0000.