The Anne Oake Recovery Centre is one step closer to reality.
On Thursday, the province announced it has signed a long-term lease agreement for the future site of the new facility, which will be dedicated to supporting women and families on their journey to recovery.
The 75,000-sq.-ft. centre will include 50 to 70 treatment beds and a licensed child-care facility to help keep mothers close to their children while receiving care.
"This is more than a building — it’s a lifeline," said Housing, Addictions and Homelessness Minister Bernadette Smith. "This centre will support Manitobans struggling with addiction to 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."
In the spring, the province also committed $1.5 million in funding towards the facility, $1 million to support capital construction costs and $500,000 to support startup funding.
"This generous support from the Manitoba government is an investment in dignity, safety, and healing," said Scott Oake, president, Bruce and Anne Oake Memorial Foundation. "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."
The Anne Oake Memorial Foundation continues its capital campaign, aiming to secure the remaining funds needed to reach its $25-million goal.
The centre will be located adjacent to Victoria Hospital on land formerly owned by the University of Manitoba.
Construction is expected to begin in the near future.