A stressed-out woman is chatting with her mental health counselor. She is explaining her problems. She is staying positive with a smile.

CUPE 4670 and Pine Lodge Treatment Centre have ratified a new collective agreement, which comes on the heels of the facility reopening its doors in Regina.

 “After a challenging time following the tragic fire at our Indian Head facility, we are thrilled to be back at work with a new collective agreement,” said Clovel Van Opstal, president of CUPE 4670 and an addictions attendant. “We are excited to start this new chapter together.” 

Pine Lodge Treatment Centre is operated by Pine Lodge Addiction Recovery Inc., which is a non-profit corporation. Since 1986, Pine Lodge Treatment Centre has provided residential addictions treatment services. The new site, located in North Central Regina, the site of the former Souls Harbour Rescue Mission, is now fully operational.

“Pine Lodge offers life-changing support to people living with addictions. We will continue to work together to help more people through their journey of recovery,” added Van Opstal.

Every year Saskatchewan sees an increase in drug toxicity deaths and although the 2022-23 provincial budget included some improvements to address the addictions crisis is Saskatchewan, more needs to be done including dedicated, multi-year funding for organizations like Pine Lodge Addiction Recovery Inc.