Wednesday, May 19, 2010

The $1,000 you spent last year but likely didn't know about

When we receive contributions for ShareLife, we're really receiving them on behalf of the network of Catholic agencies ShareLife supports. We do our best to constantly raise awareness around the issues ShareLife agencies face, and the critical services they provide to the community.

 
We recently completed the first of what will be many information pieces about those issues; this one focusses on addictions. The problem is serious and significant in Canadian society. Last year, every Canadian spent more than $1,000 dealing with a substance abuse problem!

 
Some other facts that we came across while researching the piece included that fact that:
  • 13.6% of Canadians are high risk drinkers
  • about 10% of Canadians are dependent on alcohol at some time in their lives
  • 37% of people who abuse alcohol and 53% who abuse drugs also have a mental illness
  • 30% of people diagnosed with a mental illness also have a substance abuse problem
  • 75% of homeless people with mental illness also have a substance abuse problem
  • in the year prior to being homeless, 20% of clients received addiction services
  • The Canadian economy loses $18.6 billion/year due to substance abuse in the workplace

 
ShareLife agencies are part of the solution for many people struggling with addictions in the Greater Toronto Area. Should you, or someone you know need a hand with an addiction, these ShareLife agencies can help:

 
Catholic Community Services of York Region – partnership in York Region Addiction Services
(905) 770-7040/(800) 263-2075 ccsyr.org

 
Catholic Family Services of Peel-Dufferin – individual assistance
(905) 450-1608/(905) 897-1644  cfspd.com

 
Catholic Family Services of Simcoe County – Choices for Change
(705) 726-2503/(800) 725-2503 cfssc.ca

 
Catholic Family Services of Toronto – individual assistance
(416) 921-1163  cfsofto.org

 
Good Shepherd Centre – DARE (Drug and Alcohol Recovery Enrichment) program
(416) 869-3619  goodshepherd.ca

 
Mater Dei/Carmelina’s House – two-year in-residence counselling and care
(416) 242-4207  carmelinashome.com

 
Matt Talbot Houses – St. Michael’s Homes
(416) 926-8267

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