Fort Smith, N.W.T.

Wood's Homes to treat youth in Fort Smith

July 8, 2008

CALGARY - Wood's Homes, a children's mental health treatment centre, is pleased to announce the signing of a 3-year contract with Fort Smith Health and Social Services Authority to provide therapeutic treatment for young people living in the Northwest Territories.

A facility in Fort Smith will provide treatment for nine youth (12-18) with serious mental health and behavioural challenges as a result of abuse, neglect, trauma and developmental struggles. Youth are eligible to stay anywhere from 3 days to 9 months - depending on treatment needs.

There is also a plan for community-based family care: Treatment will be provided by Wood's Homes staff who will work collaboratively with Children's Services. Our Aboriginal treatment service embraces a cultural component based on traditional teachings and is delivered by First Nations staff and elders.

Wood's Homes began as an orphanage in 1914 and today provides more than 30 programs and services for troubled children and their families throughout southern Alberta. A non-profit organization that employs more than 250 staff, this nationally accredited agency has a long-standing reputation for service excellence.

For further information about Wood's Homes please visit www.woodshomes.ca or contact:

Sylvia MacIver
Communications Manager
Wood's Homes 805 37 St. NW
Calgary, AB T2N 4N9
Direct: 403-270-1768
Mobile: 403-472-2150
email: sylvia.maciver@woodshomes.ca