Commissioner's update for offenders and their families: November 25, 2024

This week is National Addiction Awareness Week. I would like to remind you about the programs and services available to you if you need them. 

CSC has a range of support, interventions, and treatment options available for substance use, including medical treatment (such as Opioid Agonist Treatment), psychosocial support, Self-Management and Recovery Training, and other harm-reduction and treatment programs.

Certain sites may also have community organizations that provide peer support, such as Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.

Stigma is still one of the biggest barriers to seeking and receiving support and treatment. We must remember that substance use disorder is a complex health condition. Let’s have open and honest conversations so that more people feel comfortable seeking help and support. Please remember that help is available. For more information about programs or support at your institution, speak to your case manager, your parole officer, or a Health Services staff member. 

I am pleased to note that CSC recently renewed the agreement with the Interfaith Committee (IFC) on Chaplaincy. The committee works to promote education and awareness about spiritual services in corrections. It also provides us with advice on the delivery of Chaplaincy services, a priority in our institutions.

If you are interested, you may meet committee members when they are at institutions for site visits. 

"When everything seems like an uphill struggle, just think of the view from the top." - Anonymous