Calgary Dream Centre launches programs for women

After 12 years of helping men recover from addiction, the Calgary Dream Centre has expanded its services to include women.

Its opening two homes in local neighbourhoods for 10 to 12 women who might otherwise end up on the street.

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Dream Centre CEO Jim Moore says having a safe place to live while they recover from their addictions means a lot to their clients.

"And this place is safe and when they went into their rooms tears started to come down their cheeks because the mattresses that were donated," Moore said at an announcement Friday afternoon.

"We had women that came in and customized each room, it was amazing to watch the joy that came up within them."

Melanie became a client after losing her oil and gas job in November 2014.

Addiction became a problem for her.

She's been sober now for 90 days and says the program's support has been invaluable in helping her turn her life around.

"Sometimes we get into places in our minds where we don't feel like we have any hope and we don't feel like anybody understands our struggle," Melanie said.

"And when we can see that the community is reaching out to support us and that there are people there to catch us when we fall, I think that makes a huge difference."

The program is a partnership with the Aventa Centre, with costs coming from the province and fundraising. It's expected to cost about $230,000 annually to operate.