2nd year of grassroots addictions recovery camp gets Blood Tribe funding – Lethbridge | 24CA News
After years of fighting dependancy, Alvin Mills turned his life round to assist others.
“As the death toll climbs, we must do all we can to stem the flow of this darkness that has descended on us,” mentioned Mills.
Now, he’s going into his second yr of holding the Kii Maa Pii Pii Tsin (Kindness to Others) Deep Healing Recovery Camps, implementing Blackfoot tradition and beliefs as a part of the restoration course of.
The camps are an off-shoot of the Kii Maa Pii Pii Tsin Renewal and Healing Centre.
“Our recovery camp, that’s going to be the light for people to come and find their way, away from the drugs and the hardships that they endure on the streets of Lethbridge.”
For the primary time, the Blood Tribe is offering funds for the camps: $18,350, sufficient for 2 weeks of startup and operations prices to host 10 members.
“[The Blood Tribe is] demonstrating that they’re going to be more proactive and have a hands-on approach to help our people,” applauded Mills.
At the camp, members and workers undergo common opioid dependency screenings and spend a full week tenting and studying at Red Crow Park in Standoff, Alta.
The campground is lower than two kilometers from the Blood Tribe Department of Health.
“The location that we are in is ideal — we can access the wraparound services.”
Mills helps to offer methadone or suboxone as instruments for drug restoration.
On the seventh and closing day, they’ve a sweat, a approach to detox.
According to Mills, he has an settlement with Blood Tribe Health to proceed supporting members after their time on the camp.
Eldon Chief Calf attended final yr after fighting alcohol dependancy. He returns this summer season as a volunteer and hopes members discover their gentle on the finish of the tunnel.
“I hope this camp helps out people that need help. And to feel like you’re not alone, that people do care and want to help you in any way they can,” mentioned Chief Calf.
Two years sober, Casey Vielle additionally attended the camp final yr to assist on his restoration journey from a drug and alcohol dependancy. He mentioned now serving to others as a part of the staff is rewarding.
“It makes me feel better. It makes me feel a sense that I’m helping out my community. I’m helping out my wellbeing, I’m helping out my sobriety, and I’m giving back to the people,” mentioned Vielle.
Mills hopes to proceed the camp till October, however he wants extra funding.
He mentioned the tribe might fund a further two weeks and he’s had discussions with the province for potential assist.
“We need all the help we can get,” Mills mentioned. “We’ll keep that fight going.”
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