DHSS Press Release |
Date: February 20, 2008 DHSS-17-2008 |
| Vincent P. Meconi, Secretary Jay Lynch, Communications Director (302) 255-9037, Pager (302) 247-8523 Email: jay.lynch@state.de.us |
DE's Women and Children Residential Addiction Treatment Program Holds Open House
Tomorrow, Thursday, February 21st from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.Guest of Honor Governor Ruth Ann Minner
Delaware - Delaware's first Women and Children's Residential Addiction Treatment Program, dubbed The Lighthouse Program, is holding an open house tomorrow, Thursday, February 21 from 10:00am to 2:00 pm. The Lighthouse Program offers participants substance abuse and mental health treatment in a modified therapeutic community to women (up to ten) over the age of 18 with up to two (2) children under 8 years old at a time, providing a safe, therapeutic environment where they receive individual and group therapy, life skills training, computer classes, GED, trauma work and evidence based parenting classes, with case managers assisting women with job placement and housing during the final phases of care.
"In recognition of the unique barriers and experiences that women in need of substance abuse treatment services face" explained Renata Henry, Director, Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health, "we awarded funds to Brandywine Counseling, Inc. (BCI) for this specialized and comprehensive residential program for women and their children."
"The Lighthouse Program fills a critical treatment gap in the state by improving substance abuse treatment outcomes for mothers," said Vince Meconi, Secretary, Delaware Health and Social Services. "The women whose parenting responsibilities prevented them from participating in treatment will now be able to bring their children and successfully engage in their treatment and recovery. This program will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the women, infants, children, families as well as on the child welfare system and health care system."
The Integrated services provided by The Lighthouse Program include substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, medical care, trauma services, GED services, employment readiness, parenting education, child care, and social activities. Children will receive assessments, developmental and therapeutic counseling, health care, health education, and prevention services.
"A woman's decision to enter drug treatment is a difficult one; however, it is the first step toward her recovery, said Henry. "Moreover, this life changing process will give her the tools and foundation needed to live a happy, joyous life!"
Drug and Alcohol Addiction Assessment is the first step towards the recovery process. Women interested in receiving treatment can get an assessment at any of the Substance Use Treatment centers in Delaware. An assessment appointment can be set up over the telephone.
The Lighthouse Program is a collaborative effort of a multi-disciplinary provider network including Brandywine Counseling, Delmarva Clergy United in Social Action (DCUSA), and La Red Health Center and others. This collaborative maximizes effectives and combines the collective experience of local social service and treatment providers.
For more information, please contact the Denise Kitson at (302) 424-8080 lighthouseprogram@comcast.net or join us for the Lighthouse Program Dedication at 13726 South Old State Road Ellendale, DE 19941
Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.
