Big news from Alberta! The Danielle Smith government is making a major change to how it tackles addiction in Calgary. The Sheldon Chumir drug consumption site is set to close its doors, and there are no plans to open any new drug sites in the city. This decision signals a clear pivot towards a different approach: recovery.
Rick Wilson, Alberta’s Minister for Mental Health and Addiction, is the driving force behind this shift. He firmly believes that merely “enabling” addiction doesn’t help those who are struggling. Instead, the government’s focus is squarely on guiding individuals toward recovery and helping them rebuild their lives. Wilson, who shares his own journey of overcoming addiction, envisions more recovery centres opening across the province, with the “ultimate goal” of eventually phasing out drug consumption sites altogether. He speaks passionately about people working, contributing, and not “just being a taker.”
This policy isn’t just about government philosophy; it addresses significant community concerns. Calgary Mayor Jeromy Farkas has echoed worries about the Chumir site, highlighting its negative impact on the surrounding neighbourhood. Residents have long reported increased crime, social disorder, and a genuine feeling of unsafety. Mayor Farkas recounted instances of smashed windows and car break-ins, noting that the site “hasn’t worked for the neighbourhood or the addicts.” The closure follows years of community advocacy and findings that indicated a “steep decline” in the area’s perception.
As the Chumir site prepares for its closure, the province plans to deploy dedicated 24/7 teams. These teams will connect individuals battling addiction with vital services and provide overdose response, all as part of a broader, recovery-focused strategy. This marks a significant new chapter, aiming to offer a path forward for those in need, rooted firmly in hope and healing.
