Hope Mission’s Rapid Response Teams expands to 24/7 service, 3 locations

The Hope Mission can be seen in Edmonton on March 1, 2025. (Galen McDougall/CTV News Edmonton)

Hope Mission is expanding its Rapid Response Team (RRT) to 24/7 service to help with the ongoing opioid crisis after receiving a grant from the province.

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The RRT used to operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., seven days a week. The province is spending $3 million over a three-year period until March 2028.

“Our chief concern is for the wellbeing of our vulnerable neighbours and in the midst of the opioid crisis, our Rapid Response Team has saved so many lives,” said Tim Pasma, Hope Mission senior director of programs for Hope Mission.

“Beyond saving lives, we also know that greater hope is possible for those suffering from addiction. The Rapid Response Team also provides a clearer path into recovery for our vulnerable community members.”

The fatality rate of drug overdoses have decreased by 73 per cent since the start of the RRT program with Hope Mission, the non-profit Christian agency said.

The province has also given recovery coaches to be available to speak to people in the community about their recovery options after experiencing drug poisoning, Hope Mission said in a news release.