There was an article in our local paper about one of the small neighbouring towns just north of here. Everyone was all in an uproar about a potential, privately run, alcohol and drug rehab treatment centre that is hoping to open their doors in their community.
It took me a while to remember what NIMBY stood for...Not In My Back Yard.
The organization has only put up a sign about their plans. There's still a lot of red tape to work through because the site they purchased wasn't zoned for such an endeavor.
The calls flooded the mayor's office. People were afraid.
"Imagine the nerve! Bringing those kinds of people who would use such a place, here! Druggies, drunks and criminals! It won't be safe to walk down the street! I have children and don't want them exposed to those types of people!"
I can hear them. It's the same sort of attitude that greeted the methadone clinic before it opened its doors here in town. Not in my back yard! Thankfully the clinic was able to open anyways.
It's the same sort of ignorant prejudice that even the Krasman centre faces. "Those people should all be locked away!" (That is an actual quote taken during a public survey.)
So here's the truth. These are human beings: men and women who could be mothers, fathers, brothers, sons or daughters who are trying to improve their lives. Rural communities are incredibly under resourced. We need these places. People need these places.
They save lives plain and simple.
Mental health and addictions go hand in hand. Until an addiction is addressed, it is hard to get out from under the mental health challenges. It's a long and winding road to recovery. I celebrate the sheer courage and determination it takes to begin that journey.
The persons I have met who face these dual challenges inspire me. I am honoured to be called a friend by many of them.
"Then all the tax collectors and the sinners drew near to Him to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes complained, saying, "This Man receives sinners and eats with them."" Lk 15:1-2
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Boundary Study Part 2
"Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God--truly righteous and holy...
Something should be said for the incredibly healing environment that rural living provides. Hope Acres is relatively near to the area you're speaking of (I think), and has been running successfully for decades by the Salvation Army as a rehab centre.
ReplyDeleteIt would be interesting to hear what the neighbours think about the place.
Delete