SURROUNDING CITIES ARE NOT 'DUMPING' ADDICTS

The letter from Christine Eden cries out for a response. Firstly, we need
not take any advice from the Alberta government under Ralph Klein as to how
we care for people with addictions. Hardly experts in this regard.

Secondly, we have legitimate societies that run recovery programs that are
chronically under-funded and the waiting lists are long.

Somehow, the writer concludes that if we close the private homes the
recovery rate would be higher. I would dearly like to see the statistics
that brought that conclusion.

How offensive to suggest that surrounding municipalities are "dumping
addicts" in Surrey. This is hogwash. She goes on to say this is why we have
a "homeless society."

Clearly, the writer needs to get out into her community and meet people.
Interact with the disadvantaged and get a clear idea as to why these
problems exist. Speak to the poor and get an idea as to why they are in
such dire circumstances. That would open her eyes and perhaps use her heart
before she writes hateful opinions to the community newspaper.

Clayton Randle

Surrey