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.
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MAP posted-by: Beth