Otipemisiwak Métis Government hosts provincial and municipal leaders at New Beginnings, advancing culturally grounded recovery care

Press Release

Apr 24, 2026

EDMONTON — Today, the Otipemisiwak Métis Government welcomed Alberta’s Minister of Mental Health and Addiction, Rick Wilson, and Edmonton Mayor Andrew Knack and the Edmonton City Council, to its New Beginnings site.

During this tour, Otipemisiwak Métis Government President Andrea Sandmaier and Provincial Secretary of Health, Wellbeing & Seniors Kaila Mitchell underscored the need for coordinated action across governments to strengthen a full continuum of care for Métis Citizens.

“The opposite of addiction is connection. No one should have to fight addiction on their own. Our Citizens deserve full support at every stage of recovery, and they deserve systems that meet them where they’re at,” said President Sandmaier. “This work is about giving people a real chance to succeed. Not just a place to land, but a system of care that walks with them from readiness to recovery.”

“That is exactly what we’re doing with New Beginnings, creating a continuum of care that is grounded in Métis culture and identity, connecting people with housing, treatment, and cultural supports so that they can move towards a healthier, more stable life – and this work requires cross-government collaboration.”

Phase one of New Beginnings, opened in October of 2025, delivers a 40-bed transitional housing program that meets Métis Citizens where they are, offering stable accommodation alongside pre-treatment supports, cultural programming, and life skills development to build readiness for long-term recovery.

“New Beginnings is about building a continuum of care grounded in Métis culture and identity that connects people with housing, treatment, and cultural supports so they can move toward a healthier, more stable life,” said Secretary Mitchell. “This work depends on strong partnerships across governments and service providers, especially as we expand into phase two. We are grateful to have Stone Bear Recovery Solutions sharing and supporting our vision.”

Phase two will see the completion of Healing Waters Recovery Community, expanding access to longer-term recovery support that centers community as a method, ensuring a seamless transition from stabilization to treatment and into sustained wellness.

For more information or to arrange interviews, please contact:

Kenny Trenton, Press Secretary
Otipemisiwak Métis Government
ktrenton@metis.org

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