Alberta investing $30M in 400 treatment beds in Edmonton area for opioid crisis
The provincial government is expanding addiction recovery services to address Edmonton's outsized share of opioid deaths and emergency responses.
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Alberta is investing $30 million to add 400 new treatment, housing, and stabilization beds in the Edmonton area as part of a response to the city's outsized opioid crisis.
Edmonton accounts for over half of all opioid-related deaths in Alberta and nearly two-thirds of opioid-related emergency health services responses in the province — a pattern that continues despite opioid deaths returning to pre-pandemic levels in most communities.
"The trends in Edmonton are deeply concerning and cannot be ignored," said Rick Wilson, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction. "These investments are about strengthening Edmonton's entire system of care, so more people can get the help they need."
Mayor Andrew Knack said he has heard directly from residents, businesses, and community leaders in Chinatown and across downtown about the mental health and addictions crisis's impact on their neighbourhoods. "This investment represents a significant step toward connecting people with the essential support they need while improving safety and well-being for everyone," he said.
A major driver of Edmonton's opioid crisis is carfentanil, which is 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
The facts
How much is Alberta investing in Edmonton's opioid crisis response?
Alberta is investing $30 million to add 400 new treatment, housing, and stabilization beds in the Edmonton area.
What share of Alberta's opioid deaths occur in Edmonton?
Edmonton accounts for over half of all opioid-related deaths in Alberta.
What drug is a major driver of Edmonton's opioid crisis?
Carfentanil is a major driver of Edmonton's opioid crisis; it is 100 times more potent than fentanyl.
