MISSION HOSTS DRUG AWARENESS SEMINAR

Const. Joan Lovell Speaks To Group

AMHERSTBURG - Sr. Const. Joan Lovell spoke to approximately 25 people
at the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission July 21 about drug awareness.

Lovell was joined by Skills Link participants who also warned of the
dangers drugs and alcohol can present.

At the conclusion of a 25-minute video, Lovell said Amherstburg
doesn't have a problem of kids living on the streets but they do offer
resources for people who seek to get help. She said sometimes kids
turn to drugs and alcohol as a result of an undiagnosed mental health
issue.

"They look to drugs and alcohol to take them to another place," she
said.

Many times, there are self-esteem issues as kids can tell a person
what is wrong about themselves but not what is right. She encouraged
people to tell youth what is right about them and focus on the positives.

Lovell added that each child has a special gift or talent and may not
understand what it is or what they want to be.

"Drugs are not going to go away. They are here to stay. We have to
re-enforce the positive things kids are," she said.

People who need help kicking the drug habit will often avoid police,
said Lovell. She added that people at such places as the Mission can
help as well.