What to Expect

Prepare for your trip to Kackaamin by understanding the intake process and what to expect from start to finish. Although each program typically follows a similar path, there may be specific requirements or steps unique to each one. It's essential to follow these guidelines to ensure a smooth journey. For more details, check out the tabs below.

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Stabilize

Before applying, a few things need to be in place, not as barriers, but because they're what makes the six weeks work.
Safe detox from alcohol and drugs completed
Stable housing arranged
Legal matters settled, including custody arrangements
Children living with you or a clear plan in place
Finances arranged for 6 weeks away

Not there yet on some of these? Your referral worker or counsellor can help you work through what needs to happen first.

Wellness prep

Get your health in order while stabilizing. These are required before arrival.
Medical check-up completed
6 counselling sessions completed with an established counsellor
Glasses, dental, and hearing aids addressed as ongoing appointments can't be accommodated on site

Confirm you're a fit

An honest check before spending time on the application.
BC or Yukon resident
Ready to commit to 6 weeks on site as a family
Require on-site detox or withdrawal management. We cannot accommodate this
History or conviction of sexual violence, unable to attend the family program

If you're unsure, call before applying  (250) 723-7789

Apply

Each family member needs their own package and different sections are completed by different people.
  • You — Fill out main application sections
  • Your referral worker — Fills out referral and support sections
  • Your doctor or nurse — Needs to fill out medical section
  • Your counsellor — Fills out counselling section
  • Child's teacher or support person — Fills out children's sections

Download applications and fax to (250) 723-5926 

Intake and arrival

Once your complete package is received, the intake team will call to confirm. The wait is typically 1–2 sessions. Once confirmed, you'll receive a letter with dates and arrival details.
Arrange travel to Port Alberni
Confirm grocery funding with your band, Friendship Centre, or social program
Sort bills and finances for 6 weeks

You can ask to be added to the cancellation list on your intake call as you may be able to come sooner.

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Medical stabilization

SRP accepts women at an earlier stage than the family program. You don't need to be fully stable but you do need to be medically safe.
Medically detoxed: you can still be in early recovery
Medically stable enough to live in a shared environment
Active withdrawal cannot be managed on site so medical detox must happen first

Not sure if you're medically stable enough? Call us and can help you figure out next steps  (250) 723-7789

Is SRP the right fit?

SRP is a shared living environment and residents live together in close quarters. It's designed for women who need housing stability alongside recovery support.
Women 19 years and older
Moderate to severe addiction or substance use concerns
May have mild to moderate co-occurring mental health concerns
Priority given to Nuu-chah-nulth members and Indigenous people in the traditional territory
Children do not stay on site during SRP