The Salvation Army will be receiving $10M from the Government to continue its Rehabilitation Programme for 2017. This support was pledged by Minster of Social Cohesion, Amna Ally on Friday evening.
Speaking at the Organisation’s Past and Current Clients’ Reunion Dinner at their headquarters in Water Street, Kingston, Ally said this is one way in which the public and private sector can work to reduce drug abuse “and build stronger, healthier and more prosperous families and communities throughout Guyana.”
She also spoke on the importance of wider education on the dangers of drug abuse and called on past victims and relatives of those affected to raise awareness among members of at risk populations.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Salvation Army’s Advisory Board, Edward Boyer described the pride he feels knowing the work that the organisation has done over the years as he pledged to continue.
Reiterating Minister Ally’s point on the need for recovering addicts to speak out against drug use, Captain Gerry Gouveia, Chief Executive Officer of Roraima Airways, who delivered greetings at the event, said that those who have benefitted from the programme can also provide critical support for the Salvation Army’s work.
“You should let people know, because in letting people know, people learn to, first of all, understand the value of what happens here and second it might help other people to make better decisions… It is important that you do not forget this programme and forget this organisation as you move on,” Captain Gouveia said.
Programme beneficiary, Parmeswar Persaud, who delivered a testimonial at the event, shared his story of homelessness and addiction. He said that with support from the Salvation Army, he was able to fight his addiction and today he has now been drug free for five years and seven months.
The Salvation Army’s Men Social Centre has been offering the Rehabilitation Programme for over 20 years.
