“Our government joins families and communities in mourning the loss of loved ones to the disease of addiction. Every life lost is a tragedy, and a reminder of the dangers of addiction and the risk of overdose. Our government recognizes that with the right care and support, recovery is possible, and saves lives.
“We have made record investments into services, providing a continuum of care with prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. Publicly funding more than 10,000 new spaces has removed cost-associated barriers for people in their pursuit of recovery. Since springtime last year, we have proudly opened doors to three of Alberta’s world-class recovery communities, with eight more set to open over the next two years, including five in partnership with First Nations and Métis communities.
“At more than 2,000 locations across the province, Albertans can pick up a free naloxone kit, which can temporarily reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. We also encourage anyone suffering from addiction to download our free, confidential Digital Overdose Response System (DORS) app, which will send emergency response if someone overdoses when using alone.
“If you are suffering from addiction, reach out. You are not alone. For same day, immediate access to life-saving treatment medication, call the Virtual Opioid Dependency Program. To ask about services in your community, call 211. Help is available.”