Pubdate: Sun, 06 Jul 2008
Source: Victoria Times-Colonist (CN BC)
Copyright: 2008 Times Colonist
Contact: http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/letters.html
Website: http://www.canada.com/victoriatimescolonist/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/481
Author: Helen E. Mau

RESIDENTIAL PROGRAM WORKS

I am a concerned retired Canadian nutritionist and professor. I am 
shocked by the lack of a sound response anywhere in Canada to a 
successfully tried solution for drug addiction in the San Francisco 
area, Walden House.

The last I heard of Walden House there were 4,500 spaces in use in 
their program in California. This program was successful because it 
lasted 100 days, with daily counselling required, good food and no drugs.

Many clients came to the door and admitted themselves. Early in the 
history of this program, offenders were given the option of choosing 
Walden House rather than prison and many did. There was little or no 
recidivism and much appreciation by their families. The program was 
costly, but less expensive for society in the long run.

The 100-day stay is the key. The program was funded by federal, 
state, local and private funding. It offered on-the-job training by 
willing employers one client at a time.

While I taught at San Francisco State University, my students in 
nutrition, clothing design and interior design could elect a 
practical experience at Walden House. Our students were able to work 
creatively with the men in their areas of expertise.

After 100 days off drugs in this program, the clients were determined 
to remain clean and become successful.

Helen E. Mau

Victoria
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom