Indigenous-led recovery community opens on Blood Tribe

“For too many families, addiction has taken a real toll. This first-of-its-kind recovery community, led by the Blood Tribe, creates a place where people can heal, rebuild their lives and reconnect with their community,” says Premier Danielle Smith.

Blood Tribe Iitakamotsiipiohsopi Recovery Community, exterior. (Image Credit: Supplied)

“With this recovery community, more Albertans will break the cycle of addiction and rebuild their lives.”

The release goes on to note that clients will have access to comprehensive services that embody the Nation’s culture, ceremony, identity, family and community to meet the needs of Indigenous people and those living in southern Alberta. The first set of clients will begin treatment this month and have access to evidence-based, holistic treatment for up to one year.

“Today is the realization of a dream our community has held for a long time. Iitakamotsiipiohsopi means ‘a place to recover,’ and we honour those who advocated tirelessly for safe, stable aftercare support on the Blood Reserve,” says Aapao’tokaan, Councillor Marcel Weasel Head, board chair, Blood Tribe department of health.

“It has been our privilege to carry that vision forward, and we are elated to see it become a reality.”

The four other Indigenous-led facilities will be opening in Siksika Nation, Enoch Cree Nation, Tsuu’tina Nation, and Metis Nation of Alberta, with all five costing $29.6 million for opening and operating, as laid out in Budget 2026. In total, the five cost $180 million in capital funding.

Blood Tribe Iitakamotsiipiohsopi Recovery Community, dining hall. (Image Credit: Supplied)

In total, they will add 375 beds, with the government saying they will help 1,500 people each year.

Others are operating in Red Deer, Lethbridge, Lakeview, and Calgary.

“Opening the Iitakamotsiipiohsopi Recovery Community represents a landmark moment in the growth and evolution of our organization,” Saakooyinaa, Kash Shade, CEO, Blood Tribe Department of Health, says.

“Today marks the start of offering a full continuum of care for Blood Tribe members without them ever having to leave our community. We are proud of the legacy we are creating in providing high-quality and culturally grounded care available to Blood Tribe members and Albertans.”

Individuals experiencing mental health and addiction challenges can call 211 Alberta to be connected to a variety of in-person and virtual supports and services, including accessing treatment in a recovery community. 211 Alberta is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

by Josh Hall

Indigenous-led recovery community opens on Blood Tribe

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