Released on February 14, 2019
The Government of Saskatchewan is providing $2.5 million in capital funding to support 10 addictions beds as part of the Lac La Ronge Indian Band’s Wellness, Health and Recovery Centre project.
The wellness centre will blend western and traditional Indigenous approaches to healing and recovery. In addition to the 10 addictions treatment beds, it will include recreational facilities and mini-lodges that allow for clients to stay as part of a remote community program.
“We are committed to improving the health and well-being of Saskatchewan residents,” Rural and Remote Health Minister Greg Ottenbreit said. “We are pleased to provide capital funding to this centre, whose model of care will be both culturally responsive and community-driven.”
“With this funding support, I am pleased that our vision of securing a Wellness, Healing and Recovery Centre in northern Saskatchewan is closer to becoming a reality,” Lac La Ronge Indian Band Chief Tammy Cook-Searson said. “This program and facility are the result of five years of extensive consultations with our membership and other community members from young children to our Elders who have asked for improved local and culturally sensitive health opportunities. It is a crucial solution to our need for better access to health and addiction services, and one that will be key in helping our communities in need to reach their full potential and, ultimately, achieve a better quality of life.”
Investing in the wellness centre supports the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action as well as Saskatchewan’s Mental Health and Addictions Action Plan, which recommends that government partner with First Nations and Métis peoples in planning and delivering mental health and addictions services that meet community needs.
The Lac La Ronge Indian Band delivers services to the largest First Nation in Saskatchewan, and is one of the 10 largest First Nations in Canada, with a membership of nearly 11,000 people.
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For more information, contact:
Shelley Svedahl
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083
Email: shelley.svedahl@health.gov.sk.ca
Tina Pelletier
Communications Officer
Lac La Ronge Indian Band/Prince Albert Grand Council
Phone: 306-941-7120
Email: tpelletier@page.net