The holidays are a time of great joy, but for many, especially those caught in the grip of alcohol and drug abuse, they are also a time of great sorrow.
The Matrix clinic in Albow Gardens is there for those needing helping with addiction, and workers from the Expanded Public Work Program (EPWP) have been going door-to-door in Ysterplaat, Brooklyn, Albow Gardens, Phoenix, Joe Slovo, Summer Greens and Sanddrift telling residents about the rehab programme.
Siyabulela Mamkeli, mayoral committee member for health, said: “We are aware that this time of the year may be particularly challenging in terms of alcohol and drug abuse.”
The clinic will be open throughout the festive season except for the public holidays. Those seeking help for alcohol and drug problems can access the free programme Monday to Friday, from 7.30am to 4pm.
“The programme is an evidence-based intensive programme where clients are encouraged to become alcohol and drug-free and stay clean. Group sessions are offered a number of times a week,” said Mr Mamkeli.
The facility is one of five out-patient centres in the Western Cape helping people fight drug addiction. Call the clinic at 021 514 6509/6510 for more information.
