A ribbon cutting ceremony last week marked the grand reopening of a substance use and trauma treatment centre at its new location in the Cowichan Valley.
The ceremony was witnessed by Chiefs, Elders and community members from Nations all over Vancouver Island.
The new facility offers 32 treatment beds and living spaces for Indigenous people who have experienced addiction, trauma or grief.
Executive Director for the Tsow-Tun Le Lum Society Nola Jeffrey says they are extremely grateful for the support of the community in creating a space for healing.
“Tsow-Tun Le Lum is more than a place; it is a home where individuals find healing through community connection, culture and spirit. Together, we are creating a space where healing thrives and where our People can continue to find strength in their culture and pride in themselves,” said Jeffrey.
Programs at the treatment centre are based on First Nations concepts of holistic wellness, ensuring a culturally based and informed approach to treatment.
“Services provided at the centre include counselling and cultural support by phone, video or other means, live-in programs grounded in First Nations culture and tradition as well as counselling and support services for residential school survivors and their families,” said the Society in a media release.
The original treatment facility opened its doors in 1980 on Snaw-naw-as territory and operated until May of 2023.
Funding for the centre came from an agreement between the First Nations Health Council, First Nations Health Authority and the Province of British Columbia.
