Pubdate: Sun, 04 Jun 2000
Source: San Francisco Examiner (CA)
Website: http://www.examiner.com/
Contact:  2000 San Francisco Examiner
Forum: http://examiner.com/cgi-bin/WebX
Author: Chris Canter
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v00/n704/a06.html

DRUG TREATMENT CAN STOP JAILHOUSE REVOLVING DOOR

Your article "Drug reforms would keep users jail-free" (May 28) was dramatic
evidence of the need to provide drug treatment.

Each of the men and women featured in the story is participating in a
comprehensive program run by San Francisco's Walden House. For 30 years,
Walden House has worked with tens of thousands of men, women and children to
overcome addiction and its associated problems.

The objective: to provide each person with the self-esteem and foundation
necessary to lead a healthy life free of drugs and crime.

There is a growing realization that warehousing inmates in jail or prison
cells serves neither the individual nor society well. The vast majority
eventually return to their community. If addicted, they will resort to crime
to support their habit

Treatment greatly reduces recidivism and gives individuals the opportunity
to become taxpayers, as well to serve as positive role models to their
children and families -- but only if we commit ourselves to providing the
resources necessary for people to effect real change in their lives.

At Walden House we know this is possible. Our staff and many of our alumni
dedicate their lives to helping others stop using drugs and become positive
members of society.

The proposed Substance Abuse and Crime Prevention Act of 2000 (on the state
ballot in November) is critically important to all of us.

Chris Canter
San Francisco
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