Ministers reach out to addicts

Kwathema- Kwathema Ministers Fellowship in partnership with the Local Drug Action Campaign (LDAC) hosted the Agape Love Day last Thursday.

Pastor Velile Makha says the aim is to express love to youngsters consumed by drugs and substance abuse.

“The ministers who are present here are fathers, and the young people should be free to approach them and seek help if they need it,” says Makha.

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He says that the community can no longer wait on the sidelines and point fingers and do nothing to remedy the situation.

The event was opened to struggling addicts and to their families.

“We want the families to know they are not alone.

“We are here to lend whatever support we possibly can,” he adds.

When LDC’s Refilwe Mgcina asked what some of the challenges prospective recovering addicts faced, it became clear they may be having similar experiences.

“It is important to admit first that they have a problem, and not just try to quit to please their families. You have to change your environment. If you continue to hang out with the people you used to smoke with, you will relapse,” says Makha.

The issue of skills development as part of rehabilitation was also raised.

“If you go to rehab but have nothing constructive to do when you come home, it is easy to slide back into your old habits,” says Makha

Most of the addicts admitted that their lifestyle hurts the people they love the most.

The day ended with a prepared lunch, and toiletries handed to those who needed them most.

To contribute to the movement please contact Pastor Velile Makha on 085 095 8974.