Chris Clegg
South Peace News
The proof is in the pudding, so to speak!
The High Prairie Metis Indian Town Alcohol Association (MITAA) Centre recently received a three-year accreditation from the Canadian Accreditation Council for excellence in its governance and management, shelter services, outpatient services and treatment services. The accreditation is a testament to MITAA’s dedication in providing top-notch services in the area of addictions.
The accreditation is not the only thing MITAA will be celebrating this year. Later this year, they will celebrate 50 years of continuous service to High Prairie and area – a remarkable achievement!
Although MITAA has been in High Prairie for five decades, many people still do not know what the centre provides. Essentially, MITAA provides three programs.
First, they have a six-bed (two females and four males) non-medical detox. Clients should be physically and mentally able to detoxify in a non-medical setting. An individual may stay in detox 7-14 days depending on what they are withdrawing from.
The main goal of the detox is to evaluate, stabilize and prepare individuals for treatment. MITAA provides one-on-one counseling with an Eder, one-on-one counseling with an addictions counsellor, and small group activities with Knowledge Keepers.
Second, the shelter is an overnight emergency shelter for those who are under the influence of drugs or alcohol, men or women ages 18 and over. The shelter has 10 mats and clients are given a sandwich and juice or water before they go to sleep for their safety. This depends on how intoxicated they are. They may only get a sandwich four hours after being admitted or when they wake up in the morning.
The shelter opens at 7 p.m. during the winter months and 9. p.m. during the summer months. The clients must leave by 8 a.m. or later depending on weather conditions.
If individuals would like to go to treatment they can be transitioned to the detox and this option can be explored.
During the 2023-24 year there were 969 visits.
Third, the outpatient program can assist individuals who would like to attend treatment (ages 18 years and over). MITAA makes referrals to treatment centres throughout the Alberta region and other provinces if it’s feasible. Individuals can call for an appointment to explore their options.
MITAA also does substance use assessments.
MITAA also has an outpatient office in Valleyview, Alberta (ages 12 and over. The office offers counselling, assessments, and referrals.
MITAA recognizes and thanks Second Wind, Twice is Nice, Pharmasave, Freson IGA, the High Prairie Native Friendship Center, The High Prairie and District Food Bank, Royal Purple, and FCSS for their support.
