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Make a difference in fighting addiction
To the Editor:
Almost every family has been affected by addiction in some way. It is an ever increasing problem in today's society. Yet we keep it hush-hush and try to ignore it. The problem is not going to go away.
Going to a rehab is a good start in overcoming addiction, but in most cases it isn't enough. More often than not we end up having to leave rehab only to go right back into the same situations that led us there in the first place.
What is needed is more transitional housing. The reality is when you leave the controlled environment of a rehab and go back to the same situation you left you are more than likely to return to using.
Transitional housing such as Recycling Grace Women's Center is much needed. It is a structural, spiritual place for people with addictions to continue on the road to recovery while looking for jobs and places to relocate. The moral and emotional support helps a person to build self-esteem and confidence.
Unfortunately, there is not enough funding for centers like this. Tragically, without it, the cycle is only going to continue.
Public support in letters and phone calls to area representatives can help.
If your family or someone you know has been affected in some way write, email or call Jefferson City and talk to someone. The only thing it is costing you is a stamp or a little bit of time. You can make a difference.
Contact information for the Butler County area is:
Todd Richardson, District 152
Missouri House of Representatives
201 W. Capitol Avenue
Room 404A
Jefferson City, MO 65101
email: Todd.Richardson@house.mo.org.
Butler and Dunklin Counties:
Rep. Steve Cookson Dist. 153
Wayne, Ripley, Butler and Carter Counties
Missouri House of Representative
201 W. Capitol Avenue
Room 201CA
Jefferson City, Mo 65101
email: Steve,Cookson@house.mo.gove
and
Rep. Holly Rehder
P. O. Box 1868
336 S. Interstate Drive
Sikeston, MO 63801
Carmella Fenske
Poplar Bluff, Mo.