Alberta’s first residential eating disorders recovery centre has officially opened, providing specialized treatment for young people struggling with complex eating disorders.
The EHN Sandstone Recovery Centre in Calgary was established through a partnership between the Alberta government, Recovery Alberta, the Silver Linings Foundation, and Edgewood Health Network (EHN Canada).
The province has committed nearly $10 million over three years to support the facility, while the Silver Linings Foundation raised $4 million in capital funding.
“This is another important step in creating strong, recovery-oriented systems of care in communities across Alberta,” said Dan Williams, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction.
“Eating disorders can often be misunderstood and can go unrecognized or underdiagnosed. With the opening of this centre, young Albertans can now get the care they deserve and have better access to intensive treatment to better support them in their recovery.”
The 12-bed facility will provide treatment free of charge to up to 52 youth and young adults each year.
Patients aged 12 to 24 can access intensive, evidence-based care, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays. Services include individual and family therapy, nutritional rehabilitation, academic support, and structured meal therapy, with treatment lengths ranging from three weeks to four months.
EHN Canada Chief Operating Officer Christina Basedow said the centre offers a safe and nurturing environment for recovery.
“Our multidisciplinary team of compassionate experts is dedicated to addressing the unique challenges of eating disorders with evidence-based care and unwavering support,” she said.
The Silver Linings Foundation, which advocated for the centre for over a decade, emphasized the urgent need for such a facility in Alberta.
“After a decade of advocacy, we’re proud to see Alberta’s first live-in recovery centre become a reality,” said board chair Cendrine Tremblay.
Since opening its doors in 2024, the centre has already admitted 18 patients, with additional referrals underway. Youth can be referred to the facility by an Alberta physician or nurse practitioner.
Alberta’s government continues to expand mental health and addiction services across the province. Albertans in need of mental health support can contact 211 for services, including online resources like Kids Help Phone and the Mental Health Helpline.
