Pubdate: Wed, 28 Jul 2010 Source: Amherstburg Echo (CN ON) Copyright: 2010 The Amherstburg Echo Contact: http://www.amherstburgecho.com/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1671 Website: http://www.amherstburgecho.com/ Author: Ron Giofu MISSION HOSTS DRUG AWARENESS SEMINAR Const. Joan Lovell Speaks To Group AMHERSTBURG - Sr. Const. Joan Lovell spoke to approximately 25 people at the Amherstburg Food & Fellowship Mission July 21 about drug awareness. Lovell was joined by Skills Link participants who also warned of the dangers drugs and alcohol can present. At the conclusion of a 25-minute video, Lovell said Amherstburg doesn't have a problem of kids living on the streets but they do offer resources for people who seek to get help. She said sometimes kids turn to drugs and alcohol as a result of an undiagnosed mental health issue. "They look to drugs and alcohol to take them to another place," she said. Many times, there are self-esteem issues as kids can tell a person what is wrong about themselves but not what is right. She encouraged people to tell youth what is right about them and focus on the positives. Lovell added that each child has a special gift or talent and may not understand what it is or what they want to be. "Drugs are not going to go away. They are here to stay. We have to re-enforce the positive things kids are," she said. People who need help kicking the drug habit will often avoid police, said Lovell. She added that people at such places as the Mission can help as well. - --- MAP posted-by: Jo-D