The war on drugs is an everyday battle for those who are directly affected by it.

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This war propelled a mother Lucille Pienaar to open a recovery centre where families and recovering addicts can receive support and care.

Germiston City Recovery and Care Centre was officially opened in April.

The centre offers stay-in facilities, support, treatment, and specialised aftercare.

Centre manager Elna Latchman says the objective is to address the need in the Ekurhuleni area, which is infested with drug and substance abuse.

There was a dire need for a rehabilitation centre, said Latchman.

The community has been very responsive and supportive of the centre. Many send their loved ones to the centre for help. We reached out to the schools in the area to offer our assistance and support, said Latchman.

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The centre offers an accredited programme that includes the 12-Step programme.

Medical assistance and guidance are also part of the package.

They have a full-time doctor, nurse, psychologist and counsellors on standby to assist.

Latchman said the rehabilitation of drug and substance abuse is costly, hence some people dont get the chance to get clean.

The effects of Covid have not made it easy for families to get help for their loved ones because of loss of employment.

Drug addiction affects the family, community and society emotionally, financially and physically, said Latchman.

The addict must have the desire to get clean. The family must be prepared to assist or support the addict through the process of recovery. Dealing with the recovery of an addict has to be done holistically, said Latchman.

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She said that sometimes families get left behind during recovery and when an addict is discharged, they are not sure how to offer support.

Our support groups help the family and friends to understand that they too need help in coping with the emotional journey of living with an addict, said Latchman.

She said they opened their doors because they have seen the demand and need from the Germiston community for help.

The centre established the Real Campaign to raise funds for rehabilitation.

Those who need assistance can contact Elna Latchman at 072 935 0320 or 011 826 6026.

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Germinston centre on war with drugs - Germiston City News