More than a month ago the South African non-governmental organisation, the Re-focus and Upliftment Foundation (RAUF) stopped by in Estcourt offering positive help and support to individuals struggling with drug addiction.

Since then residents have come out in their numbers; either seeking help or as a family member offering support to the affected individual. On October 28, RAUF hosted their first meeting in Estcourt with the hope of reaching audience members who are looking for the help and support.

Five weeks later the Estcourt Re-focus and Upliftment Foundation team are impressed with the growing attendance by locals. “We are off to a good start in Estcourt and we look forward to the journey that lies ahead,” said Irshaad Desai. With the aim of addressing the serious drug issue within the community, the foundation now hosts weekly meetings at the Forderville Hall.

Principal of RAUF Ebrahim Daud and eight members from the support team attended the meeting on Wednesday, November 18. Some of the topics discussed during the past meetings are the denial process, learning experiences and the tough love concept, aimed at parenting skills.

Local RAUF facilitators have discovered that ignorance of addiction is a common problem amongst the support group.

Above all, the meetings have been extremely beneficial to the foundation, drug users and the support group, as the meetings have been able to extend the help they require and spread awareness. RAUF meetings are held every Wednesday at the Forderville Hall at 7.30pm for substance abusers, their families and the general public.