MORE ADDICTION BEDS OPEN FOR SASKATCHEWAN YOUTH

Saskatchewan youth will now have access to additional support for
substance abuse and addictions after six new youth stabilization beds
were opened in Saskatoon this week.

Four beds are located at the Calder Centre and two in the mental
health unit of the Royal University Hospital.

"It is imperative that Saskatchewan young people have a safe place to
withdraw from alcohol and drugs and stabilize physically, emotionally
and socially," comments Healthy Living Services Minister Graham Addley.

The addition of the new beds are as a result of Project Hope, a three
year plan which uses a comprehensive, integrated approach to the
prevention and treatment of substance abuse.

Beds will be available on an interim basis and a plan is in place to
construct a permanent 12- bed unit beginning in the fall.

Locally a Sunrise Drug Addictions Consultation meeting identified one
of the issues for local youth struggling with addictions is a
shortage of beds in the province.

While other programs are in place and are working for some, those who
are more deeply affected by addictions require the beds to overcome
their addictions.