Mayor Patricia de Lille yesterday awarded certificates to 140 ex-drug addicts from across the Cape Flats who completed the City of Cape Town’s substance abuse programme.
The Matrix Clinics helped addicts in Tafelsig, Manenberg, Delft South, Khayelitsha and Parkwood areas and start a new chapter in their lives.
Addressing the graduates and their families at the Kensington Civic Centre, De Lille urged everyone to spread the word about the Matrix Clinics so that more people could be assisted.
“You are the sons and daughters of this beautiful city, this city belongs to you. If you know anyone who is on drugs speak to them, educate them. If drug urges come, call our 24-hour helpline to seek assistance, please, don’t go back,” De Lille pleaded.
De Lille stated that since 1 July 2011 to the end of March 2016, the Matrix Clinic programme has provided 7 502 addicts with assistance. The programme also provides job opportunities for the rehabilitated.
Eloise Lewis, 38, from Delft South who was addicted to tik, says she is a changed woman and living a happy life now.
“I was addicted to tik for eight years, I lost my family, I lost everything. Today because of the Matrix Clinic I am four years clean, I have my family back and I’m working at the Matrix clinic to help others,” says Eloise.