Centres to rehabilitate drug addicts

Meduma and Pathuma drug addict rehabilitation centres at Nayakakanda, Hendala run by the Archdiocese of Colombo help people to overcome addiction and intergrtate into society.

The Apostolate for Drugs and Alcohol Demand Reduction Service was launched by Rev. Fr. Boniface Mendis in 1998 and during the past 10 years several drug and alcohol addicts who have been completely rehabilitated have returned to their homes.

Director of the centre, Rev. Fr. Jude Bernard Rodrigo, said drug and alcohol addicts are rehabilitated through the Therapeutic Community Method and they help one another to regain a good life.

He said those, who wish to follow the program need to stay at least six months at the centre to recover fully. The residential program is for males.

Drug and alcohol victims are rehabilitated through counselling, value education, behaviour therapy and belief method according to his religion.

"The Apostolate provides services to all irrespective of caste and creed and around 50-60 resident inmates have recovered completely and are leading fruitful lives", the Director said.

Those who wish to support the Apostolate could contact the Parish Priest of St. Mary's Church, Nayakakanda, Hendala.

- Lalin