Hundreds of men will benefit from funding for a View Royal addiction recovery facility, the B.C. government announced Tuesday (Oct. 17).
The New Roads Therapeutic Recovery Community received $4.39 million from the province, which said the funds will support 330 men over the next three years through the facility’s recovery program.
New Roads offers integrated help to men over the age of 19 who have repeated experiences with the criminal justice system, housing instability and addiction challenges. The Our Place Society-run site offers options for stays up to two years as residents are provided on-site nursing and physician care, counselling, Indigenous healing approaches and programs that focus on building skills for employment and daily living.
“New Roads has proven to be a beacon of hope for the men who come through its doors,” said Our Place CEO Julian Daly.
New Roads resident Joshua Ritch told Black Press Media last month about how the site’s programs helped him become a leader in the recovery community after he spent much of his life in and out of prison for crimes fueled by his drug addiction.
“I spent a total of 11 years in a federal institution,” said Ritch. “Prison never helped me, but now I am here … this program is really a fresh new beginning. I’m 45, but I felt more like 50, 60 coming into it. Now I just feel fresh and young again, like I have a new life in front of me with so many options.”
The New Roads centre’s day-to-day activities that require residents to rely on each other fosters a sense of community among the men, the province said. That and its focus on job training increases employment opportunities for the men who go through the program, the province added.
The recovery program is split into four major stages and provides residents with the supports they need to develop life skills through all the phases. Some of New Roads’ services include therapy sessions, peer support and mentorship, recreation activities, relaxation and educational groups, personalized recovery programs and discussions on how to prevent relapse.
“When people make the brave decision to break free from addiction, they need support and a welcoming community,” Premier David Eby said in a news release. “We’re committed to funding recovery centres like New Roads, where men can be supported in making the courageous decision to rebuild their lives.”
Residents can request New Roads services themselves or be referred to the program by health or other officials. Resident Tyson Airaksinen said in the release that the site is a lifeline that will help him navigate challenges and stay sober.
“I was able to examine the underlying causes of my addictions and behaviours, find healing, develop new skills, and gain a profound understanding of myself that will forever influence my life.”
With files from Justin Samanski-Langille
READ: ‘I have a new life’: View Royal rehab community a success amid drug crisis
