| Family Outreach Ontario Christian Addiction Support Services |
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Type of Service: Raising awareness about chemical dependencies in churches and schools. Providing conferences, newsletters, workshops and information sessions. Distributing related books and literature. Coordinating 45 volunteers to help struggling individuals and their families.
Fee Structure: No fees. Reimbursement for kilometres travelled is encouraged. Donations by clients and their families are welcome.
List of Services: Intervention preparation and Interventions. Coordinating admittance to Withdrawal Management and Treatment Centres. Telephone referrals.
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Names of Staff and their Qualifications:
Murray Hofsink: Experienced Intervention Facilitator
We are volunteers who are sensitive to the dynamics of alcoholism. When asked to respond, we offer assistance to all family members who are directly or indrectly involved in substance abuse. In doing so we direct spouses, siblings and parents to professional help, counselling, and advice. Our local volunteers are ready to assist anyone who needs initial help, information or just someone to talk to. In keeping with the A.A. code, all contact is absolutely confidential. Please feel free to call anyone of us at any time.
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Mission Statement:
The mission of Family Outreach is to support research relating to substance abuse, to conduct conferences and seminars on substance abuse, and to minister to those afflicted and affected by substance abuse.
Addiction to drugs (including alcohol) is a disease, which is permanent, progressive, predictable and primary. It is not curable but is definitely treatable. Because of wrong choices and repeated abuse, the addict has lost control over the affect that the drug (alcohol) has on his/her mind and body. In order to live sober a day at a time, an alcoholic needs not to take that first drink, and to seek the community and support of Alcoholics Anonymous. A similar support group called Narcotics Anonymous is available for narcotics abusers.
Addiction is a slavery to drugs which can be overcome. It is similar to slavery to other sin in that it is holistic and an “equal opportunity” disease. It is no respecter of race, religion, gender, profession or wealth. Regaining self-control is a gift of the Spirit as well as a fruit of the Spirit. However, addiction is more than a moral issue. It affects the person spiritually, but also physiologically and psychologically.
Addictions affect relationships. Thus the whole family adapts, covers up, and enables the addiction to continue. Not only the addict but also family members develop delusional systems. This denial contributes towards co-dependent behaviour becoming a pattern for each.
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