At Fresh Start Recovery, our work extends far beyond helping individuals—it’s about creating a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community. Through our programs, partnerships, and outreach efforts, we help build a foundation of support, hope, and transformation for individuals and families. Our impact is felt not only by those in recovery but by the broader community as we work together to create lasting change and a more compassionate society.
The Impact of Fresh Start Recovery:
Lives Transformed, Communities Strengthened
A testament to the program's effectiveness and the participants' dedication
Breaking the Cycle of Addiction
Understand that addressing addiction is about more than just treating symptoms — it’s about helping individuals rebuild their lives, reconnect with their families, and step back into their communities with purpose and hope. Addiction doesn’t just affect the individual; it ripples through families, workplaces, and neighbourhoods. Our work isn’t just about recovery — it’s about restoring lives and creating lasting change.
The Costs of Addiction and Homelessness
Healthcare Strain – Addiction places immense pressure on Canada’s healthcare system, costing over $49 billion each year. This includes hospital visits, emergency services, and long-term care. By supporting recovery, we reduce these burdens and create space for healing.1.
Criminal Justice Impact – Addiction often intersects with the criminal justice system, resulting in arrests, trials, and incarceration. These costs weigh heavily on individuals and communities alike. Recovery helps break this cycle and creates new opportunities for growth and contribution.1.
Emergency Services – People experiencing addiction and homelessness frequently turn to shelters and crisis services, especially in cities. These services are vital but reactive. Recovery provides proactive, long-term solutions that build stability and hope.2.
Economic Impact – Substance use can lead to lost jobs, reduced productivity, and missed opportunities, costing billions each year. By supporting individuals on their recovery journey, we help restore potential, rebuild careers, and strengthen entire communities.1.
Fresh Start Recovery’s Impact
At Fresh Start, we see the human side of these statistics every day — the fathers reconnecting with their children, the mothers finding stability, and the individuals rediscovering their worth. Every person who walks through our doors is more than their addiction. They are resilient, courageous, and capable of transformation.
Recovery changes lives, and together, we can continue to create spaces where healing happens. Thank you for being part of this journey — whether you’re supporting, mentoring, or walking the path yourself. We believe in you.
Reduced Healthcare Costs: Clients who complete our 90-day program experience fewer hospital visits, reducing strain on emergency rooms and saving healthcare dollars. Every $1 invested in addiction recovery saves $4-$7 in healthcare and legal costs3.
Lower Recidivism: Effective treatment lowers the likelihood of repeat offenses. Recovery-oriented care reduces interactions with the criminal justice system, benefiting public safety and reducing costs associated with arrests and incarceration4.
Economic Productivity: Alumni of our program are more likely to maintain employment and contribute to the economy. As they transition from dependency to independence, the ripple effect positively impacts workplaces and families.
Stable Housing and Social Support: With access to affordable housing and peer-supported recovery groups, our clients sustain their progress. Alberta’s investment in recovery communities, like the Lethbridge facility operated by Fresh Start, has already served 117 clients, since opening the doors till the end of 2024 showing the immediate value of structured support4.
Measuring Success: Recovery Capital
At Fresh Start Recovery, we align with Alberta’s Recovery-Oriented System of Care, utilizing evidence-based approaches to track and enhance recovery capital. Recovery capital represents the personal, social, and community resources contributing to the resilience that empowers individuals to sustain long-term recovery. By strengthening and building resilience, we help individuals build lasting foundations for healthier, more fulfilling lives.
Results That Matter:
- 43% improvement in recovery capital for individuals completing our treatment programs.
- 95% occupancy in post-treatment housing, demonstrating the ongoing demand for and success of our services.
- Over 2,000 Albertans are supported each year through recovery-focused programs across the province.
A Return on Investment for Communities
Fresh Start Recovery transforms not only individual lives but also the communities we serve. By reducing homelessness, crime, and emergency service use, our programs contribute to public safety and long-term cost savings. Alberta’s $1.13 billion investment in mental health and addiction recovery highlights the importance of providing comprehensive, accessible care across the province.
Future Impact:
As we expand recovery communities and enhance data-driven approaches, Fresh Start remains at the forefront of solutions grounded in compassion, resilience, and long-term recovery.
Together, we are creating brighter futures — for individuals, families, and communities across Alberta.
