Manitoba’s first supervised consumption site opens soon at 366 Henry Ave., Winnipeg, without federal permit, under urgent public health provision.

Manitoba’s first supervised consumption site, planned for 366 Henry Ave. in Winnipeg, is expected to open within weeks after the province learned it didn’t need a federal permit. The temporary mobile facility will operate under a federal provision allowing urgent public health sites to launch quickly, aiming to prevent overdoses and connect users with treatment. A permanent site is planned for next winter. While officials emphasize collaboration with police and health providers, some local residents and business owners have voiced concerns about safety and underage access, saying the government hasn’t fully addressed their worries.