KEREMEOS – A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held today to mark a construction milestone at British
Columbia’s first long-term residential treatment centre for youth challenged by addiction.
The event at The Crossing at Keremeos was held to celebrate the completion of Ashnola
Lodge, a residential building that will provide accommodation for 20 youth, along with space for
programs. The first clients will start arriving in early 2009, while construction on other buildings and
amenities for the 42-bed centre is on schedule for completion by May 2009.
“British Columbia offers a range of services to youth with addictions, but The Crossing at
Keremeos will provide a service not yet available in this province – long-term residential treatment for
drug and alcohol addiction,” said Health Services Minister George Abbott. “This centre will provide
young people with a proven treatment program that can help them rebuild their lives.”
The centre is the result of collaboration between the Ministry of Health Services, Fraser Health,
Interior Health and Vancouver Coastal Health, the community organizations Central City Foundation
and From Grief to Action, and the program operator, Portage Program for Drug Dependencies.
“The Central City Foundation board truly welcomed the opportunity to push forward with the
early completion and occupancy of the Ashnola Lodge, having long recognized the urgency of the
needs of B.C. families and young people challenged by addiction,” said Central City Foundation
president and CEO Jennifer Johnstone.
“We have been dreaming of this day for 10 years,” said Susie Ruttan, co-founder of From Grief
to Action. “Now addicted youth of B.C. will have the benefit of Portage’s life-changing program in
their home province. In this spectacular, uplifting setting, they will have the chance to restore their
health, reconnect with their families and reclaim their future.”
The Crossing at Keremeos will provide treatment for up to 42 youth, aged 14-18, who will live
on site for between six months to a year, depending on their needs. While at the centre, they will
participate in a program developed by the Portage Program for Drug Dependencies, which features
daily group therapy and regular recreation and sports activities to promote physical health and well-being.
Residents will also be able to complete their high school education and receive vocational
counselling.
Vancouver Coastal Health and Fraser Health are providing $2.4 million in annual operating
funding for The Crossing at Keremeos. Interior Health will provide urgent or emergent medical
services required by the residents of the centre.