CRYSTAL METH ADDICTS HAVE A FRIEND THEY HAVEN'T MET

Anonymous Donor Buys 35-Bed Hospital In Willingdon For Edmonton
Church To Use As Youth Treatment Centre

A 35-bed hospital has been donated anonymously to a group that wants
to help young crystal meth addicts.

The group is seeking government help so it can open its doors immediately.

"We've had 400 calls from people looking for help," says Jack
Johnson, a volunteer who has helped at the Youth Development and
Treatment Centre.

"Meth is a cheap, easily made drug that is incredibly addictive. But
it has devastating effects on health.

"Once you have tried it once or twice, there is no turning around.
We've heard from one boy who sold himself and ripped off his family
to chase a high."

The anonymous donor heard Dwayne Saunders of the Edmonton Community
Worship Hour Church had found a suitable site for his treatment
centre. He bought the disused hospital at Willingdon and handed
Saunders the keys.

A St. Albert plumber supplied pipes to repair those cracked in the
building an hour east of Edmonton and the church collected blankets and towels.

"It will cost about $250 a day to look after people," says Johnson.

"Doctors, a licensed pharmacist, a dietitian, a psychologist and
counsellors will be needed. All staff must have a degree or at least
a diploma before we can become licensed."

He added: "This is a Christian-based program. We will have a
full-time chaplain on staff and there is a chapel.

"Willingdon is an ideal place because clients won't have a supply of
meth while undergoing treatment."

Once the centre is open, the group hopes corporate donors will step
up to help with funding.

"Any estimates of meth addicts should be multiplied by five," says Johnson.

"The drug is going through schools, parties and nightclubs at a
frightening rate. We plan to help youngsters of both sexes aged 15 to 20."

Young people think nothing can harm them and don't realize how
quickly they can become emotionally and physically wasted, says Johnson.