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The
Thailand Development Research Institute estimated that there were 1.3
million drug addicts - heroin and others combined - in the country of
Thailand in 1995. The police reported that the number of drug cases
nationwide jumped from 86,603 in 1991, to 105,556 in 1994 (an increase
of 22%). Because of the rapidly growing drug problem the government
spent 64 million US dollars on an anti-drug campaign in 1996.
Now, in the year 2001, they estimate 3 million amphetamine addicts in
the country. Of the 3 million, at least 60% of them are under the age
of 19.
The
Shelter tries to meet these need by providing a family environment for
young men coming off drugs. Changing the habits of addiction is a long
term process, but The Shelter is determined to see these young men set
free from the curse of drugs.
We have been running a drug rehabilitation program in Bangkok for 6
years now, with all the ups and downs which are part of this kind of
ministry. For the first 2 years we had mainly heroin addicts staying
with us, but that has recently changed to amphetamin addicts as well.
In order to run our drug rehabilitation program, we have rented an appropriate
house in Bangkok that has enough space for both workers and residents.
Not only does it have a large kitchen and meeting room, but the compound
around the house gives opportunity to involve the residents in a work
programs as well.
The Team
Presently,
we are a small team with only a few workers. We as a couple (Rolf &
Trujit pictured here on the right) are responsible for the ministry.
We also have several other people working alongside of us as well.
Due to the size of the house, we are only able to take in 7 residences
at a time. Eventually we hope to see residents who have successfully
completed the program and who have demonstrated a commitment to Jesus
become co-workers with us in the program.
Future Ministry Plans
Our long term goal is to see Thai nationals take over
this ministry, and establish other drug rehabilitation centers across
Thailand. We also hope to see our people serve in other ways in the
kingdom of God, especially ministering to the poor and needy. We feel
that it is also important to be actively communicating with local churches
about the importance of practically assisting the poor and needy.
Opportunities For You At
The Shelter
Staff Needs
It is possible to join us for short term or long term. All the addicts
are Thai speakers only, so it will be necessary for all volunteer staff
to learn Thai to be able to communicate. For details, write The Shelter
address below.
Financial & Prayer Needs
Rent and utilities: US $555 per month
Residents: US $75 per month, covering food, medical care, hygiene
articles and clothing
Thai staff: $180 per month (note: all foreign staff are self
supported)
To do this mission-ministry, we need supporters both
in prayer and finances. If you would like to help, please see the “Give
L.I.F.E.” page.
Contact:
The Shelter
G.P.O. Box 12
Saphan Mai
Bangkok 10221
66-2 531 7845
Fax 66-2 531 7846
E-mail:
helpthai@web.de |