MONEY GOES TOWARD CRYSTAL METH EDUCATION

Stopping the problem before it starts is the main idea behind a new
school-based drug education program, says Mission-Maple Ridge MLA Randy Hawes.

"Instead of helping people who are drowning in the river we are going
to be stopping people from falling in the river," said Hawes.

The goal of the provincial government funded program is to inform
youths, teachers and parents about the dangers of crystal
methamphetamine use - before the drug has a chance to invade their lives.

The $3-million initiative includes various classroom lessons and
guides for both parents and teachers. Hawes said the program is a big
step in the right direction. "There is no question in my mind this is
the right thing to do," he said.

Along with this funding, in 2005 Premier Gordon Campbell committed $7
million to crystal methamphetamine addiction and prevention.

Hawes said while the province has rightly turned their attention on
youths, current addicts have not been looked over and are still a
priority. From last year's funding, $2 million was designated for
targeted treatment programs.

In Abbotsford, two local organizations have recently received funding
for addict treatment and abuse prevention.

Addiction prevention grants from Fraser Health Authority are aimed at
reducing substance abuse in children and youth.

Abbotsford Community Services will receive $23,050 to create support
groups for children and youth aged nine to 12 affected by substance
abuse. The group will use conversation, games and creative activities
to help youth deal with topics like self-esteem and anger

The second grant of $19,000 will help the Impact Society document the
journey, through interviews and footage of youth who are part of the
"Stand Up to Drugs," project, shows people up to 24 years old how to
use comedy to deal with their addictions.

Mike de Jong, Abbotsford-Mount Lehman MLA, said innovative programs
like these go a long way in making a connection with youths.

"It's very much about finding a way - in a language they understand,"
but he added the key is everyone involved working together. "It's
very dependent on a co-ordinated approach, that means kids, teachers
and parents have to get involved," he said. Hawes hopes the
school-based program will lead to more interaction and feedback from youths.

"Kids know what's effective for kids."

De Jong said coupled with the money from last year, this financial
boost will bolster the amount of resources.

He said he is confident the program will be ingrained in the
Abbotsford and Mission school districts soon.

"The school board in Abbotsford has been extremely co-operative and
vigilant in taking advantage of resources," he said. Hawes said the
success of the initiative relies on the youth and he is confident
they will get the message.

"They're amazing leaders when given the chance."

For more information on the program and methamphetamines, visit www.no2meth.ca.