MONEY HELPS IN DRUG BATTLE

Nanaimo Crystal Meth Task Force is in line for its share of a $2
million grant from the B.C. government.

Community anti-meth programs around the province will receive up to
$10,000 in grant money.

Mike Hunter chairman of Nanaimo's task force, said he made the
application for the grant and believes Nanaimo is on a pre-approved
list because its program is running.

While admitting "$10,000 is not a whole lot of money," Hunter said
the plan is to use the grant for education and training and studying
the connection between enforcement and treatment.

"We're looking not only educating children and parents but training
people to recognize the symptoms of crystal meth," he said.

"They would not only be first responders, but people such as clerks
in retail stores where ingredients are purchased."

Hunter said treatment would include pursuing contact with addicts.

"We know there are quite a few services available from 9-to-5, but
addicts tend to be nocturnal," he said.

"We need an inventory of the treatment available and figure out how
we deal with the problems."

The community grants are part of a $7-million funding package
announced by the province in September.

Other pledges include $2 million for enhancing existing treatment
program, $2 million for a public education campaign and $1 million
school-based awareness campaign.