The White Buffalo Treatment Centre now has a new permanent facility.
Monday on the Muskoday First Nation people from a range of organizations including, Indigenous Services Canada, which provided funding for the new permanent building through their National Youth Solvent Abuse Program (NYSAP), marked the new treatment centre’s grand opening.
The centre aims to help girls who are between the ages of 12 and 17 who are dealing with substance abuse problems. Treatment and care at the facility is based around a model which focuses on helping patients spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally. To do this, youth are provided a range of treatments ranging from group counselling to formal education. Cultural teachings and ceremony are also part of the recovery process at the centre.
In a media release sent out Monday, it was also explained the White Buffalo Treatment Centre’s new building would include common areas, therapy rooms, a gym along with an exercise room.
Ava Bear Chief of the Muskoday First Nation welcomed the opening of the new facility explaining it will be serving an important role.
“The White Buffalo is a facility that is greatly needed and will assist many young people as they continue on in their lives,” she said.
Minister of Indigenous Services Patty Hajdu commended all the people involved with the project and said the centre will help young people.
“The White Buffalo Treatment Centre facility and program will benefit Indigenous young women and girls across Saskatchewan as they do the difficult work and recovery,” she said.
(Photo Courtesy of Government of Canada)