Union Gospel Mission’s women’s addiction recovery program at the Charis Centre in Winnipeg is a faith-anchored residential recovery pathway for adult women (18 +) whose alcohol, drug or compulsive use has affected their health, relationships, family roles, or daily functioning. Situated within a Christian mission context, this program blends structured recovery education, spiritual growth, life-skill development, and supportive community living over an extended period.
Christ-Centred Residential Recovery With Phased Engagement
Women typically begin in the B.R.E.A.T.H.E. (Beginning Recovery Essentials And Therapeutic Healing Endeavors) program, a minimum 30-day introduction that combines teaching on addiction, recovery issues, and supportive group work in a safe, supervised setting. After completing this phase, participants are encouraged to transition into the HEART Recovery Program, a longer-term continuum that addresses the spiritual, emotional, and physical aspects of recovery through five progressive phases: Healing, Equipping, Accountability, Responsibility, and Transition.
Integration of Daily Life, Skills and Support
Throughout the residential journey, women engage with recovery chaplains, participate in Bible study and life-skills classes, and develop coping strategies and accountability habits that are designed to carry forward into life beyond the program. The phased structure supports personal growth, community involvement, and planning for next steps, such as employment, education, transitional living, or leadership roles, as women build routines that reinforce lasting change.
Affordable Christian-Guided Care With Continuity Options
The Charis Centre’s model emphasizes Christ-centred support and community connection, with opportunities for extended aftercare and transition plans that help residents maintain and extend recovery gains after the core residential phases. Accessible to women ready to commit to sustained recovery work with structured support and spiritual grounding, this program situates healing within both structured community life and tangible skill development.
