Future image of the Cree Nations Treatment Haven / Submitted by Belinda Nelson
By Belinda Nelson
A ground-breaking ceremony was held on November 18th, 2024 in Ahtahkakoop. The new facility will take more clients, have a detox centre, and have more space for staff.
Groundbreaking at Ahtakakoop for the new Cree Nations Treatment Haven / Submitted by Belinda Nelson
“What we did this year is we added a 10-bed detox centre,” said Chief Larry Ahenakew.
“We won’t have to turn the clients because they’re inebriated or they’re high. You know, they can just go straight to the detox, spend seven days there, then transition into our new program,” says Freda Ahenakew.
The new location is nestled in the pines with a peaceful, serene view of one of the lakes in Ahtahkakoop.
Construction of the new treatment centre in Ahtahkakoop begins immediately and is expected to be completed within two to two and a half years.
The original Cree Nations Treatment Haven opened in 1987 with a vision of the four chiefs of the Ahtahkakoop, Big River, Pelican Lake, and Witchekan Lake First Nations. The nations realized an urgent need to combat the damaging causes and effects of alcohol and drugs on their peoples and communities.
Cree Nations Treatment Haven Project group photo / Submitted by Belinda Nelson
The Opioid Treatment Program dispenses Methodone, which is an effective treatment against opioids. Clients are expected to enter the residential inpatient program or attend the Matrix Program.
The Matrix Model Intensive Outpatient Program is a 7-week program that provides clients with knowledge, structure, and supports to assist them in achieving abstinence from drugs and alcohol. This program is available to individuals 15 years of age and older. It is also available for individuals ordered to attend treatment by the justice system, probation services, social services, an employer, etc.
For more information on these programs the Cree Nations Treatment Centre has to offer, you can visit their website at Cree Nations Treatment Haven—Home.