Hundreds of recovering drugs dependents and their families in Dumaguete City will soon get professional help from the local government under the Strategies toward Acceptance, Reintegration, and Transformation (StART)program that was first introduced in the National Capital Region.
Councilor Lilani Ramon, who authored the resolution to adopt the StART program, stressed that the “sole intent of the program is for government to provide second chance for recovering drugs dependents to be accepted back in the mainstream of society, live normal lives and become responsible and productive citizens.”
The StART Aftercare Program shall be composed of a social welfare, the City Health Officer, a psychologist, and a recovering drug dependent peer coach.
Hundreds of recovering drug dependents who surrendered under Oplan Tokhang need the help of their communities and families to recover from their addiction to dangerous drugs.
Once the StART team is organized, it will work closely in coordination with the Anti-Drugs Abuse Council of each local government unit, and tap the help of faith-based organizations, support groups, as well as the academe in their respective locality.
Recovering drug dependents will be allowed to leave the StART program once they can consistently record negative drug test results, become gainfully employed, finish vocational skills training, and demonstrate good performance.
After the 18 months, if the case does not warrant a separation from the program, the StART team will recommend for an extension based on the assessment. (PIO)
