“Odds are that you have a family member or know someone who drinks too much, takes too many pain pills or has crossed the line to street drugs.
“As many as two-thirds of American families are affected by alcohol or drug addiction, according to a 2004 report. Once that addiction is treated, all kinds of good things happen: Debts get paid off. People get jobs. They stay out of emergency rooms and the criminal justice system. They spend more time with their families. The benefits, compiled in 2014 by the nonprofit Faces & Voices of Recovery, go on and on.
Homeward Bound*
“We could talk about numbers ($343 billion in this nation every year) – or we could talk about human costs. Either way, the price is almost unbearable. We see the pain and stigma of addiction every day as people line up for treatment at our front door. Thankfully, we are also surrounded by people who have taken advantage of second chances. They are working hard, making good choices, keeping us proud. They remind us daily of the importance of what we do.
Photos of people in recovery*
“We are Homeward Bound, a nonprofit that treats people recovering from mental illness and substance abuse. Our 152 beds in Dallas make us the largest center in North Texas serving those who cannot pay for treatment, probably don’t have insurance and may be homeless. We are one of the largest companies of this kind in Texas.
“We make mental health and sobriety possible for 5,000 people every year. We do it with grants and donations. With your help, we can do more for more people. We participated in North Texas Giving Day last year, and this year on September 17 we hope to equal or exceed the thousands we received from the generous people who understand how vital our services are to individuals and to the community. Bookmark our giving page and give 6 a.m. to midnight that day to extend your donation with bonus funds and prizes.”
-By Douglas Denton, Homeward Bound Inc. executive director
* Photos courtesy of Homeward Bound