Cedar Haven. (Image Credit: Union Gospel Mission)
Healing and Horticulture

Langley recovery home continues supporting addiction treatment with gardening program

Aug 9, 2026 | 9:25 AM

LANGLEY — A live-in recovery centre in Langley continues to help women plant new chapters in their lives – two years since it first opened its doors.

Union Gospel Mission is currently supporting 15 women through Cedar Haven, a 57-acre rural property that accommodates women seeking sobriety.

The facility combines addiction treatment and 24/7 wraparound care with rural life skills through farm animals and a lush garden.

“Many women arrive to Cedar Haven feeling overwhelmed or carrying a lot of stress, because of addiction and trauma in their lives,” said UGM spokesperson Sarah Chew. “Once they spend time in the garden, you can see the palpable relaxation of their bodies. It helps them feel grounded and present.”

Horticulturalist Alexa Wowchuk teaches participants how to plant flowers, fruits and vegetables through Cedar Haven’s gardening program every Tuesday, with the women responsible for their own work on other days of the week.

“I’m very honest that not every plant will make it. Some things thrive, others fail, and that’s okay,” said Wowchuk.

“I’ve watched this process in the garden help women challenge some of the harsh scripts they carry about themselves. As they nurture fragile seedlings into strong plants, they start to see that growth—rather than perfection—is the real goal.”

Wowchuk says the program helps by teaching them how to care for both the plant and themselves, which often also gives them a sense of calm and satisfaction by the end of a hard day.

Cedar Haven can house up to 17 women pursuing recovery. It began operating in July 2024, offering resources ranging from counselling and recovery care workers to creative outlets and activities.