A place of refuge and healing for Eldos
"It has been a difficult journey but I see how much faith the centre has in me, I have to see this through," Gerald Klaasen.
With the ongoing drug pandemic in Eldorado Park, a place of refuge and healing has been the pillar of strength for many who are in the grip of substance abuse.
The Community Arise and Shine (CAS) Foundation is a non-profit organisation based in Ext 3 which focuses on the welfare of substance dependent persons.
Founder Daphne Wills said that the organisation was established in an effort to better the lives of those afflicted with substance abuse and other underlying issues.
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“Our humanitarian development centre is a 24/7 emergency intake safe haven for drug users, abandoned and suicidal people who want to change their lives for the better. Our methods of detox and rehabilitation are based on deliverance, prayer, fasting and social counselling.
We are not a rehab, but a spiritual crossover,” said Wills. She added that the centre equips patients with spiritual guidance, home-based morals, ethics and when they are fit enough, they are reintegrated into society.
24-year-old Jermaine Manual, who found the centre in his hour of need, said that his life has completely changed because of their dedication and effort. from the centre.
“I was addicted to drugs for a while, I knew I wanted to change my life so I ended up here. Today I stand tall, proud to say that I have successfully overcome my drug addiction. It is possible, you just have to want it for yourself,” said Manual.
Another recovering addict, Gerald Klaasen said that before finding CAS, his life was dark and filled with alcohol.
“It has been a difficult journey but I see how much faith the centre has in me, I have to see this through,” he said.
The centre currently houses 75 individuals, some of whom are outpatients and seven who are female.
“We are currently looking for a venue to house our females, there is simply not enough room for everyone but we refuse to chase anyone away,” said Wills.
They hope to visit schools to talk about drug addiction. A petition against drugs has been set up at the centre, anyone who is interested can visit them to add their names to the list. Anyone who seeks refuge can visit the centre at 109 Boekenhout Street, Ext 3.
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