First Nation in B.C. to take back land of addictions treatment facility
Xatsull First Nation has announced that it will take back the land where the Nenqayni Wellness Centre now stands. Starting April 2026, the First Nation will once again be in charge of the property.
The First Nation is located in the Cariboo region of central British Columbia, and the wellness centre is situated near the community of Williams Lake.
- You might also like:
- Construction finally begins on new major addictions rehabilitation centre in Vancouver
- Long-term plan to completely rebuild and expand Vancouver General Hospital
- Most B.C. residents back appeal of Aboriginal title ruling in Richmond: survey
The facility offers residential and outreach programs for Indigenous youth, adults, and families dealing with addiction and wellness issues.
According to its website, it opened in 1996 as one of Canada’s first youth treatment programs of its kind, originally located in modular trailers before new purpose-built buildings were constructed in 2002. Over the following years, they added a full-sized gymnasium, childcare facility, and family program school.
A non-profit organization operated Nenqayni Wellness Centre, with a board of directors comprised of the chiefs of 15 local bands governing its operations.
However, starting in November 2025, Nenqayni Wellness Centre will begin shifting its programs to offer more in-community and outreach services. Ahead of this transition, it has already ended its applications for residential care programs.
According to a release issued Friday afternoon, this decision comes after many years of talks and community meetings. Xatsull leaders say the goal is to create new opportunities for healing and wellness that are led by and for their own people.
“As we move forward, we are reclaiming this space to continue that healing in our own way — for Xatśūllemc,” said Xatsull Chief Rhonda Phillips in a statement today. “Guided by our Secwépemc teachings, by the wisdom of our Elders, and the energy of our youth, we are shaping a future that reflects who we are as a people.”
Phillips said the First Nation is thankful for all the work that been done at the facility and for everyone who helped make it possible.
The First Nation notes that their community members recently met to share their ideas for what should happen next. Many said they are excited to see the land used in ways that help people reconnect with their culture, families, and traditions.
“We deeply respect the healing work that’s taken place on this land,” continued Phillips. “And as caretakers of this place, our responsibility is to ensure that healing continues in ways that honour our language, our teachings, and our community priorities.”
“This is about reclaiming stewardship — not removing healing. It’s about standing once again in our role as protectors and teachers, restoring our relationship with the land and with one another. We see this as a beginning and a continuation of healing, not an ending.”