Indigenous individuals dealing with homelessness and addiction need access to culturally informed services to successfully overcome addiction. Through an $88,000 Civil Society Grant, the Oxford House Morning Star Rising Sun Indigenous Healing Home will provide 25 spaces for members from Indigenous communities in Treaty 6 and Treaty 7 territories to access a broad range of cultural supports to recover from addiction.
“Homelessness and addiction are both issues disproportionately affecting the Indigenous community. The Morning Star Rising Sun Healing Home will not only provide housing and employment supports but a space that will allow Indigenous people to reconnect with their culture while recovering from addiction.”
The Civil Society Fund provides one-time grants for organizations to build their capacity to address pressing social challenges.
Alberta’s government is strengthening supports for Albertans struggling with addiction and mental health issues while building safer communities for everyone. Earlier this year, the government announced an investment of $1.8 million to Oxford House for pre-treatment housing spaces that can help up to 240 people per year. These pre-treatment housing spaces provide a safe place for people who are preparing to enter addiction treatment and go on to a substance-free life.
“Housing that supports recovery is essential to the Alberta model. Oxford House is a trusted partner in addiction treatment, and these new spaces will help more Indigenous people access culturally safe services to support their recovery from the deadly disease of addiction.”
"I am thankful to all of the remarkable partners in this project for their dedication and contributions, driving forward the path of reconciliation. The Morning Star Rising Sun Indigenous Healing Home will stand as a testament to Indigenous-led solutions, encourage meaningful change, and offer support for those in need."
Residents will be able to participate in ceremonies, Elder sharing and healing circles, sweat lodges, house-naming ceremonies and annual feasts. The services residents will receive coincide with recommendations from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
“As a First Nations leader in the province, I can’t begin to put into words the gratitude I have. The opening ceremony of our Morning Star Rising Sun Lodge Indigenous Women’s Recovery Healing Home is monumental for the city of Edmonton and the province of Alberta. Together our life carriers can heal and walk the Red Road to recovery hand in hand, where all nations will be united as one.”