Keep Hope Alive by Roy Tullgren III

Children of Meth

When we think about Methamphetamine, we usually visualize adult addicts. This very addictive and dangerous drug, is spreading across our state and our country. It is estimated that over 250,000 residents of Arizona have tried Meth. Law enforcement agencies report that the vast majority of crime (burglary, robbery, violence, etc.) is tied to this drug.

The use of Meth cuts through all levels of society…all areas of town…and has no ethnic boundary. Unfortunately, it also has no age boundary. Meth impacts our children.

Meth is affecting our children in several ways. First, there are those who are actively using and are already addicted to the drug, including teenage girls…some of whom use it as a means to lose weight. Dr. Richard Carmona, while serving as Surgeon General, stated in 2006 that Arizona led the nation in Meth abuse with for children ages 12-17.

Secondly, there are younger children… including infants… who are becoming addicted in Meth houses where the drug is “cooked”. Residue from the drug penetrates the skin and is absorbed by the child’s body. Innocent child are becoming addicted…from “second hand” Meth residue.

In addition, the most forgotten segment are children whose parents become incarcerated. Unfortunately, these children are paying a steep price for their parent’s Meth addiction. They wind up in the custody of the Child Protective Services and are often placed in foster homes.

The good news is our community is responding to and making a positive impact in the battle against Meth. Much of the progress can be attributed to the efforts of the Meth Free Alliance that was established about 2 years ago.

The Faith Based Committee of the Meth Free Alliance is hosting a Faith Leaders Summit on “Meth Through the Eyes of a Child” on April 12th. The purpose of the Summit is twofold. First, will be the education and equipping of the faith community (especially pastoral leadership and youth directors) regarding Meth…including resources and treatment. In addition to the speakers and workshops, a comprehensive notebook will be given to each participant.

Secondly, and perhaps most importantly, there will be a faith community call to action. Based upon the information shared at the Summit, the attendees will be asked to help develop action plans to mobilize the faith community in the fight against Meth.

This Summit is a can’t miss opportunity for the faith community to receive education and resources and to take action that will make a positive impact in our community and upon our children. There is no charge for the Summit. Consider this YOUR invitation to attend!

For more information, contact the Meth Free Alliance at (520) 388-4711. See YOU at the Summit.

Roy E. Tullgren III serves as Director for Gospel Rescue Mission. Find out how you can get involved and make a difference by calling: 740-1501.