Mental health and addiction services expanded

Expanded mental health and addictions programs will mean better outcomes for Albertans coping with mental illness and addiction. “The Alberta government’s integrated services will increase much needed supports to the community, and significantly enhance the implementation of programs such as Housing First,” said Susan McGee, executive director, Homeward Trust Edmonton, in a news release. “Increased access to addiction and mental health supports will improve the ability of previously homeless Albertans to achieve and maintain housing and create strong ties to the community in which they live.” The provincial budget earmarked $25 million to implement these first initiatives from the provincial addiction and mental health strategy. Sixteen government ministries worked with diverse stakeholders in the addiction and mental health community across Alberta to determine where programs are most needed.