Essentials is a two-part program designed to support women in breaking free from addiction, abuse, and exploitation while building physical, emotional, and social well-being.

The program combines a structured life skills curriculum with individualized client support to help participants establish stability and move toward long-term recovery.

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Essentials – Life Skills:

This four-month, full-time day program provides immediate access to essential life skills training. With just five days of sobriety from drugs and/or alcohol, participants can begin making positive lifestyle changes, leaving behind unsafe and unhealthy circumstances to start their journey to recovery. The curriculum, based on an abstinence model, covers key topics such as:​

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• Coping and social skills

• Setting and maintaining boundaries

• Personal development

• Anger management

• Relapse prevention

• Healthy relationships

• Problem-solving

• Group equine and yoga therapy

• Employability assistance and job readiness

• Additional workshops, presentations, and outings

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Essentials – Client Support:

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Running alongside the day program, this service provides individualized, one-on-one support to help participants regain stability and rebuild their lives.

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• Twice-weekly drug screening

• Weekly one-on-one meetings (or more as needed)

• Assistance with Income Assistance applications

• Referrals to Drug and Alcohol Counsellors

• Support for meetings with the Ministry of Children and Family Development, court, and probation

• Referrals to NOW Canada’s Trauma Therapy Program, Healthy Living Program, Follow Care Program, and Peer Mentor Program

• Continued support after graduation from Essentials

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Eligibility Requirements:

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• Women 15–55 years of age

• Motivated to make lifestyle changes

• Minimum five days without substance use to begin the program

• Physically and mentally able to participate in program activities

• Willing to attend 2 twelve-step meetings per week

• Able to live without 24-hour supervision

Essentials is an abstinence-based program. Drug screens are required, and medication policies apply.

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Program Fees:

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Minimum 5 days without substance use:

The Essentials Program operates under the Assisted Living Registry and most participants are eligible for Per Diem rate. If you are not eligible, contact program staff to discuss fees.

There is currently no fee for community participants who attend Essentials.  

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If you or someone you know is ready to make positive and healthy lifestyle changes, complete the form below or call NOW Canada at 250-763-3876 to speak with our Program Coordinator.