From addiction to freedom – women to share stories

WOMEN will share their stories of breaking free from addiction when they speak at an Elgin church next week.

Representatives from women’s addiction recovery refuge Benaiah – a residential centre near Mintlaw – will speak at Elgin Baptist Church from 10.30am-12.30pm on Saturday, September 14.

Graduates who have completed the centre's Christian faith-based Teen Challenge programme will describe how they have rebuilt their lives following the devastation of addiction.

The programme is made up of class-based studies, counselling, personal reflection, work duties and recreation, with the aim of helping students to become "physically, emotionally and spiritually whole".

Benaiah says it is the only residential centre in Scotland which allows mothers to live alongside their pre-school children while the parent works on their recovery.

The refuge recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, having first opened its doors in August 2009. Since then around 150 women have come to the refuge for help and support.

Grace Donn, senior support worker at Benaiah, said: "We’re excited to be heading to Elgin Baptist Church to share about our work at Benaiah, where hurting women have the opportunity to turn their lives around.

"It’ll be an inspiring time, packed with stories of hope, and we’d encourage people to come along and enjoy the morning.

"This is open to anyone, but if someone is struggling with addiction then this is an ideal event to hear how freedom is on offer."

Teen Challenge North East Scotland also runs a men’s residential addiction recovery centre, Sunnybrae, near Fyvie.

Both recovery homes are quiet rural retreats where those suffering from substance misuse can take time out.

The organisation started in New York in 1958, when pastor David Wilkerson reached out to help teenage gang members in the city. It now has 1,400 centres in 125 countries.

For further information on Teen Challenge North East Scotland visit www.tcns.org.uk or call 01651 891627.

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