MEDIA MISGUIDED ABOUT HARM REDUCTION

To the editor:

Thanks to Mark Hasiuk for reminding us of the inconvenient truth about
harm reduction. In over six years of ministry in the Downtown
Eastside, I have seen the general situation grow steadily worse.

My reason for being philosophically opposed to the concept is Scriptural:
Jesus Christ, whom I preach, is about harm elimination, not harm reduction.
I look at the fruits--the transformation and positive changes that I've seen
in people coming to Gospel Mission and The Lord's Rain (our street-level
showers ministry and outreach or "draw-in") proves the value of ministering
God's love and grace, coupled with the hope and the knowledge that they're
not just capable of a turnaround but entitled to one. God bless.

Drew Snider, asst. pastor, Gospel Mission/The Lord's Rain