REACH Foundation seeks holiday support for recovering addicts

The P.E.I. REACH Foundation is hoping Islanders will be able to help them support recovering addicts during the holiday season.

The foundation helps people between the ages of 15 and 30 in recovery by providing support to learn new life skills, continue their education and get work experience.

Executive director Carla Wood-Whitty says the holidays can be a challenge for some people, including those with children and those just exiting the transition units.

"They can't afford groceries. They don't have a winter coat. They don't have winter boots," Wood-Whitty told Matt Rainnie on Island Morning.

She said this causes stress for recovering addicts.

"As you see the holidays get closer, the anxiety is rising and as the anxiety rises the need to want to use comes back.

Seeking donations

Wood-Whitty said she decided to reach out to others to see if they could help those who need it.

Recovering addicts will be asked to make a wish list and Wood-Whitty said the funds and items donated to the holiday support program will be used to grant them a wish whether it would be buying a gift for someone else or buying themselvesgroceries.

Marshall MacIsaac, a recovering addict who began as a volunteer with the REACH Foundation and is now a supervisor said holiday support program will mean so much to so many.

"I'm grateful I have a family to go back to," he said but knows others don't.

MacIsaac said it is tough to see others living on their own with no family support.

"That just triggers me to get this program on the go and give back."

Those interested in helping can find more information at REACH Foundation's website.

Wood-Whitty said they are accepting donations of nonperishable food, essential winter clothing like mittens, hats, gloves scarves, winter coats, winter boots, toiletries, and money donations.

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