Media Contacts

Ministry of Health

Media Relations
250-952-1887

Backgrounders

What people are saying about the new withdrawal-management facility in Terrace

Amna Shah, parliamentary secretary for mental health and addictions –

“As we build up the substance-use system of care in the northwest, it’s essential that services honour Indigenous leadership, cultural knowledge and community expertise. The progress underway in Terrace reflects that shared commitment. These upcoming withdrawal-management services will make it easier for people to get support in a setting that respects their culture, identity and healing journey.”

Sean Bujtas, mayor of Terrace –

“Today’s announcement is an important step forward for Terrace and the northwest. Our community has long called for better access to withdrawal management and culturally grounded care, and I’m grateful to see this commitment moving ahead. Jennifer Whiteside, former Minister of Mental Health and Addictions, pledged support at UBCM in 2024, and despite challenges along the way, Minister Osborne is delivering. This work will make a real difference for families and support people close to home.”

Colleen V. Nyce, board chair, Northern Health –

“Northern Health shares the commitment of, and values the partnerships with, the Northern First Nations Alliance, First Nations Health Authority and the Province in building out a substance-use system of care that is culturally safe and community-focused. Working together, we can make significant achievements in supporting northwestern B.C. residents and communities across a spectrum of treatment and recovery care.”

Scott Tremblett, CEO and founder, Red Road Recovery –

“As someone who nearly lost everything to addiction, I know that when you’re ready to ask for help, it needs to be there. For too long, people in the northwest, especially Indigenous communities hit hardest by the toxic drug crisis, have had nowhere to turn. The North needs more services, and Red Road North, a partnership between Red Road Recovery and the Northern First Nations Alliance, proves culturally grounded, community-driven healing is possible.”

Jorden Squires, NFNA board treasurer, and council member for Kitselas First Nation –

“This space represents more than a building; it represents compassion, dignity, and a commitment to walking alongside our people on their healing journey. For too long, our communities have faced barriers when seeking support, often having to leave their families, land and support systems to access care. Today, we take an important step toward bringing that care closer to home.”