Gabriela Novotna is reflective as she recounts a recent trip to a managed alcohol program (MAP) in Edmonton. A multi-site residence, it provides housing and alcohol for people with severe alcohol addictions.

“Managed alcohol programs go beyond tolerating alcohol consumption. They are part of a homelessness and harm-reduction strategy,” says Novotna, an associate professor of social work at the University of Regina. “The onsite staff monitor and dispense regulated doses of alcohol, and despite what many think, people in these programs financially contribute to the provided alcohol.”