B.C. funds women’s society offering addiction-related support

Westminster House Society is receiving financial support from the B.C. government to continue offering addiction-related support to women and girls.

According to a release, the province has provided $272,000 to the society to help with their services, which include support for women and girls dealing with nicotine, alcohol, prescription medication, and substance use, as well as behaviour disorders, such as problematic eating and gambling.

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The organization has offered support for 42 years and runs bed-based treatments and a recovery centre in New Westminster. Susan Hogarth, executive director for Westminster House Society, says they’ve helped 650 women and girls start their recovery process since 2019.

“The Province’s investment into the programs at Westminster House will include health and wellness, as well as the addition of support staff to help our clients build recovery capital for improved quality of life,” she said.

B.C. Minister of Mental Health and Addictions Jennifer Whiteside says it is “vital the right services are in place” for those reaching out for help.

“That’s why our government is investing in organizations like Westminster House Society. This funding ensures women and girls will continue to access the services they need and deserve on their journey to wellness.”

The province says 4,000 women and girls have contacted Westminster House Society since former provincial health officer Dr. Perry Kendall declared a toxic drug crisis in 2016.