Help at hand for substance abusers

If you, or someone you know is battling with a substance abuse problem, there is hope and help is within reach.

Silkworth Recovery Centre opened its doors in December last year, and is determined to make a difference in the Germiston community.

“My journey with Alcoholics Anonymous began 26 years ago,” said founder Kevin Maistry.

“More recently I began to look at recovery centres in the area and was shocked at how much these centres cost.

“Recovery has become a business, and when you are in addiction or have hit rock bottom you have lost everything, how can you be expected to afford some of the prices the recovery centres are asking?”

It is with this in mind that Silkworth was born.

Operating from the Primrose Methodist Church grounds in Primula Road the centre offers a full-time outpatient 12-step programme, with a safe and sober environment which is ideal for people who are struggling with addictions.

The centre does not charge for the programme and instead relies on donations and sponsorship from the community, as well as, local businesses.

“There is no donation too small,” said Belinda Maistry.

Since opening their doors the recovery centre has seen approximately 30 people go through the full-time 12-step recovery process and hold several open meetings each week.

Silkworth offers support not only to the individuals suffering with the addiction but to their loved ones too.

“We are happy to say that our programme is working,” Kevin said.

For more information on the centre or to find out how you can help call Belinda on 060 855 7818 or Kevin on 082 080 1595 or email to silkworthrecovery@gmail.com, alternatively visit www.silkworthrecoverycenter.org

Meeting times:

•  Open meetings are held on Mondays and Fridays at 7.30pm and Sunday at 10.30am.
•  Women’s only meetings are held on Tuesdays at 7pm.

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