MISSION IS HURTING, NOT HELPING ADDICTS

To the editor:

I recently moved from Lynchburg to Roanoke. After getting involved in
community meetings and activities in Southeast, I'm disappointed and
upset with the Rescue Mission. It caters to the drunks and drug
addicts. I cannot believe the city allows this to continue.

These people hide anywhere they can to drink, urinate and sleep. A
true Christian mission wouldn't allow them to maintain an easy,
carefree life. It would help them get their lives straight.

The programs in Lynchburg helped people get their priorities straight.
If they came in under the influence, they were out of the facilities
or programs.

A Christian family took me in almost 20 years ago. I was homeless and
strung out on drugs and alcohol. They told me if I ever came to their
home high, don't knock! That taught me responsibility. Now at the age
of 35, I help others who are like I used to be. But I don't throw them
over my shoulders, burp them and send them out for another drink.

I'm totally shocked that the churches, the city or other organizations
continue to support the Rescue Mission. It isn't helping these people.
It's hurting them.

DANIEL DOSS
Roanoke