Pubdate: Mon, 21 Feb 2005 Source: North Thompson Star/Journal (CN BC) Copyright: 2005 The North Thompson Star/Journal Contact: http://www.starjournal.net/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1231 Author: Jill Hayward Bookmark: http://www.mapinc.org/youth.htm (Youth) BARRIERE STARTS METH AWARE GROUP The fledgling Barriere Against Drugs (B.A.D) group have started to develop guiding policies and principles within the various committees that they have formed. Barriere resident Trina Hobson has taken on the committee for recovering addicts called "Meth Aware". "In 2003 we faced the wildfires which forced our community to come together as a group in a way that I believe has made us unique," said Hobson last Wednesday, " Our community comes together in crisis and supports each other in adversity." Hobson is a well educated and very astute individual who has an extensive background in working with volunteer organizations and groups. She stated that the members of B.A.D. believe it doesn't matter who brought up the idea of organizing B.A.D., or who started to act on it - what is important is the positive response from the community, and outlying areas. Other towns from BC have also called to find out how they can organize and create their own group to combat drugs in the community. "How we have come together as a community and have committed ourselves to improving our drug situation is an extremely positive step," said Hobson, "We are no different from any other rural community that is currently addressing drug abuse, but we have admitted there is a problem and have dedicated ourselves to improving the situation." Bringing awareness to the community and focusing on education and support for those within the community are goals that are already set and being implemented by B.A.D. "Our school principals are working hard to keep our children safe and are doing the best they can and should be thanked for their efforts to promote drug and alcohol awareness," said Hobson," We must support them and our RCMP throughout this endeavor." Hobson stated that the recent "media frenzy" that Barriere is experiencing after articles on drug abuse and the forming of B.A.D. have appeared in the Star/Journal newspaper is a positive event. "Anyone that thinks Barriere will get a black mark from this is mistaken," said Hobson, "Families with children, such as myself, need to know that their community is not turning a blind eye to addiction problems. Addiction happens in all communities. What makes Barriere unique and a better place to raise our children is that we will not ignore the problem, our whole community is gathering to provide education and support for those affected. How can this be a negative?" If you wish to find out more regarding Barriere Against Drugs please contact the North Thompson Volunteer Centre at 672-0033. - --- MAP posted-by: Beth