Dear Sir:

I was born in Terrace 37 years ago, left at a young age and have recently moved back with my son. I forgot how beautiful this little city is. Yes, just like any other city in the world there is poverty, drug abuse and violence.

But I was disgusted to read the comments of the lady in the newspaper story concerning the day program for homeless people. I wonder if the lady who stated the program was a “drop-in druggie day care” has any idea what it’s like to be homeless, in need, addicted or just plain hungry?

I guess this individual doesn’t see the children and single parents that utilize this program or is it that the 5-year- old eating a sandwich is a future druggie?

Judgement like this angers me. Who are you to judge? Many people are living paycheque to paycheque and can barely afford to clothe or feed their kids and can very easily be one paycheque from being homeless.

Life hands out curve balls and in many cases, the curve ball includes an addiction. If this lady even had a clue on what an addiction is I’m sure she would be ashamed by her comment.

No one wants to be an addict. They may have chosen to get high or drunk but if you are unfortunate you become addicted.

An addict did not wake up one day and say, “Hmm. I’m going to be an addict today – that’s my goal.”

An addiction is a need, not a want. And until that person hits rock bottom in many cases that is when the person realizes that it is a problem and reaches out for help.

How dare she speak so freely on an area she is blind to. I do see her point on the day program needing to be moved. But that’s all I see.

How would you feel if you watched your child, friend or old school teacher walk past your house and climb the stairs to the soup kitchen?

I know it sounds bad but believe me it’s true. Not all people are druggies or dealers. Believe my words because once you’ve walked a mile in those shoes, your opinion may differ.

I am far from being rich but not far from using a program such as this. Thank you to all that matter. Places such as this do make a difference. I am living proof that it works.

Carol Burton,

Terrace, B.C.