The Alberta government, in collaboration with CASA Mental Health, has committed $148 million to enhance mental health services for children and youth across the province. This investment marks a significant expansion in support structures, including the construction of new live-in treatment facilities and an increase in the number of specialized classrooms.
Premier Danielle Smith emphasized the urgency of addressing mental health and addiction issues early, stating, “In order to build a stronger future for our province, we need to help young people who are struggling with mental health and addiction challenges now, before these challenges escalate any further.”
The funding allocation includes $40 million to triple the number of CASA Mental Health Classrooms, designed to integrate mental health care within the school system for students in grades 4 to 12. Additionally, $98 million will be used to establish three new CASA Houses—residential treatment facilities offering a comprehensive suite of therapies—and expand the services of an existing facility.
Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, Dan Williams, highlighted the government’s dedication to supporting young Albertans. “We are proud to follow through on our commitment to expand mental health services available to children and youth,” he said.
CASA Mental Health, a key provider in the region, aims to reduce hospitalizations by offering early and accessible interventions. Bonnie Blakley, CEO of CASA, stressed the importance of this initiative: “This partnership with the Government of Alberta will bring services closer to Albertan children and families. The goal is to provide mental health services earlier to more children and youth to prevent treatment in hospitals and empower them to thrive.”
The expanded services are not just limited to treatment facilities. The funding also supports the addition of various specialty services, including programs for trauma, family therapy, and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, further diversifying the care options available to young Albertans.
With these investments, the Alberta government aims to significantly increase the reach and efficacy of mental health services across the province, ultimately benefiting approximately 2,000 more children and youth each year.
