Manitoba Government Secures Site for Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre

The Manitoba government has finalized a long-term lease for the upcoming Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre, a facility dedicated to offering treatment and support for women and families affected by addiction. The announcement was made by Bernadette Smith, the Minister of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness, who emphasized that this initiative will allow families to remain together during their recovery journey.

The province has committed $1.5 million to this vital project, which includes $1 million allocated for construction and $500,000 directed towards startup programming. This funding is part of the Mino’Ayaawag Ikwewag Strategy and the Department of Housing, Addictions and Homelessness. Designed to be a comprehensive resource, the 75,000-square-foot centre will incorporate treatment beds and a licensed child-care facility, enabling mothers to stay close to their children while receiving care.

The facility will be situated adjacent to Victoria Hospital on land that was previously under the ownership of the University of Manitoba. “This is more than a building — it’s a lifeline,” Smith stated. “This centre will support Manitobans struggling with addiction access the supports they need and help them along a path to recovery. We are proud to stand with the Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation in making this vision a reality.”

The project is spearheaded by the Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation. Its president, Scott Oake, noted that the initiative builds on the legacy of his late wife, Anne, who was a strong advocate for recovery programs. “This generous support from the Manitoba government is an investment in dignity, safety, and healing,” Oake remarked. “Anne believed deeply in the power of recovery and the importance of keeping families together. Her spirit will live on in every woman who finds hope within these walls.”

Supporting Indigenous Communities

This initiative also aligns with broader provincial efforts to support Indigenous women, girls, two-spirit, and gender-diverse individuals. It responds directly to recommendations from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, highlighting the government’s commitment to addressing systemic issues within these communities.

Construction of the centre is expected to commence shortly, with the foundation actively working to reach its $25 million capital fundraising goal. For those interested in contributing to the project, additional information and donation opportunities can be found at www.bruceandanneoakefdn.com.

The Anne Oake Family Recovery Centre represents not just a physical space but a crucial step towards enhancing the support available for families navigating the complexities of addiction. The collaborative efforts of the Manitoba government and the Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation shine a light on the importance of community-driven solutions in the face of ongoing challenges.