A support group for methamphetamine users and their families is holding a public information session.
The Ice Meltdown Project (TIMP) has grown in recent times and is inviting the local community to learn about what it is they do.
The community volunteer support group, which services Gippsland, offers awareness, education, public speaking, individual client and family therapy, supported family detox programs and drug screenings for those wanting to recover from their ice addiction.
The information session, to be held on Thursday 9 March, will also discuss the Education and Training Department’s decision to allow the program to take a lease to use the Athlone Primary School as a base location.
The project will use the school’s office and buildings for ongoing care and participation of clients during the management of their recovery during the proposed timeframe of 9am to 5pm weekdays.
In a statement, the group said it was important to note the project was not a rehabilitation facility nor a place of detox, but a place to offer dignity and productivity to clients to assist in re-educating them with life skills.
The group said they were asking the community to show their support in assisting TIMP, which has offered many hope and belief in their recovery.
They want to share their successes with the local community because “they are our people. Our clients are somebody’s son, daughter, mother and friend. Addiction does not discriminate”.
“Those that would like to see and hear what it is we offer should take the time to open their hearts and minds that drug addiction is in their town and throughout Australia,” the statement read.
“It can be approached successfully with non-judgement and teamwork.
“Families are struggling with the angst that drug addiction brings, hence why we involve the families in the care of the detox.”
The community meeting will be held at the Drouin Anglican Church parish hall, at 7pm, on 9 March.
For more information contact the secretary on 0484 917 081 or visit www.icemeltdown.org.au
