June 23, 2022
ROCKY MOUNTAIN HOUSE — The future of the Shunda Creek Treatment Centre, run by Enviros under contract to Alberta Health Services (AHS), has been secured following a successful funding application and agreement on a new site.
Shunda Creek Treatment Centre is a 10-bed, 12-week wilderness-based addiction and mental health treatment program for males aged 18 – 24.
Funded by AHS and run by non-profit Enviros, the program provides intensive adventure-based wilderness programming that addresses substance and mental health issues which require live-in treatment and support.
With the support of AHS and the Alberta government, Enviros has successfully secured funding to purchase a new site near its current location, west of Rocky Mountain House.
"We are absolutely thrilled that we will be able to continue providing this invaluable program, and that young Albertans will continue to benefit from this unique and important treatment," said Hazel Bergen, CEO, Enviros. "We are grateful for the support of AHS, the provincial government, and our alumni, staff and supporters who believe so strongly in this program."
The Shunda Creek Treatment Centre is currently based on leased land held by Alberta Infrastructure. Unfortunately, the centre’s infrastructure – including trailers for sleeping, group space, and showers – is in poor condition and in need of replacement.
An active search for an alternative site has been underway for more than a year by both AHS and Enviros.
"Enviros Shunda Creek provides a proven, successful service to young Alberta men, and we are very happy that the program will be able to continue at a new location," said Sherie Allen, Senior Operating Officer, Addiction and Mental Health with Alberta Health Services’ Central Zone. "This is a great example of how working together can move mountains."
Enviros is also grateful to Alberta Infrastructure, which has supported and helped to maintain the current site, and supported Enviros as it looked for a new location.
"Enviros has been a valued partner in providing addiction treatment for young adults since 2009. The Shunda Creek Treatment Centre provides a unique treatment opportunity for individuals with substance use disorder, and we are pleased that the program will be able to continue," said Mike Ellis, Associate Minister of Mental Health and Addictions.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
