Charles J. Andrew Youth Restoration Centre opens in Sheshatshiu

The Charles J. Andrew Youth Restoration Centre was officially opened in Sheshatshiu, Labrador today, providing Innu, Inuit and First Nations youth with unique and original programming in the field of solvent treatment.

The centre, which will be staffed by 23 individuals (youth workers, counsellors, a cultural co-ordinator, office manager and project development officer), who will focus on a comprehensive and holistic treatment program designed to nurture and promote cultural values and healing practices.

Health Canada has committed $1.2 million annually to support the centre, through the National Network of Solvent Treatment Centres Program. The newly-opened 12-bed facility at Sheshatshiu is one of 10 such treatment centres for aboriginal youth established across Canada.

Another $100,000 was provided by the International Grenfell Association. This money will be used to help offset the mortgage of the building.

Attending today�s opening ceremonies on behalf of Premier Brian Tobin was Justice Minister and Attorney General Kelvin Parsons. He was joined by Paul Cochrane, assistant deputy minister of the Medical Services Branch with Health Canada, and Jonathan Andrew, son of the late Charles J. Andrew, for whom the centre is named.

"The adherence to a holistic treatment model, with concepts based on the values and beliefs of traditional spiritual and cultural activities, is threaded throughout all program components at this facility," said Parsons. "Aboriginal youth from all over Atlantic Canada will benefit from this facility. They will mature into outstanding citizens and contribute immensely to their communities, province, country and world. Believing in oneself is the first step on the road to success."

Parsons also applauded the Sheshatshiu Band Council for their efforts submitting the proposal for funding to develop the centre, and the Health Labrador Corporation for their assistance in the program planning.

The first group of 12 young people, are expected to arrive at the centre by the end of May 2000, to begin a four-week pilot project.

Background
Charles J. Andrew (1951-1996) was a role model from Sheshatshiu, Labrador, who worked diligently on behalf of children. He was the first director of the community�s Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program. In 1983, he was presented with the Tom Longboat Lifestyle Award from Health Canada. Naming the entre after him is an opportunity to recognize his contribution to the community.

Media contacts:
Kathy Dicks-Peyton, Director of Communications, Department of Justice, (709) 729-6564.
Lynne Gregory, Executive Director, Charles J. Andrew Restoration Centre, (709) 497-8995, Ext. 238.

2000 05 16                                 4:50 pm