Minister of Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care, and Addiction Management, Drs. Mervin Wyatt-Ras, was present in Caya Grandi alongside KPA, City Inspectors, and Stichting HUNTO to address the situation of street addicts who have been causing disturbances in front of certain businesses, specifically in front of the former RBC building.
The Minister emphasized that discussions are ongoing with various facilities that provide addiction support, as the current structure falls under Stichting HUNTO. The government is holding talks with them to find the best solutions for the street addict situation.
Addiction problems, according to the Minister, are growing in Aruba. A study from 2010 revealed that 10% of the population struggled with addiction, and this number has since increased. Street addicts are the most visible cases, but many individuals also struggle with addiction within their homes. Often, large amounts of household money are spent on drugs, leaving families without financial stability.
Minister Wyatt-Ras highlighted ongoing coordination with Stichting HUNTO to reach out to addicts on the streets and, on a voluntary basis, guide them to the inloophuis (day center) where they can shower, eat, and receive care before returning to the streets. The goal is to motivate them to seek professional help.
However, motivating many of these individuals remains difficult due to underlying psychological and psychiatric problems caused by heavy drug use. This has also contributed to a rise in mental health issues on the island.
“We will continue discussions and work on addressing the disturbances and negative perceptions caused by street addicts, especially in Caya Grandi. These individuals are still human beings, and they must receive the necessary treatment so they can return to our community free from addiction,” Minister Wyatt-Ras stated.
Photo Credits: https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/adictonan-ambulante-ta-keda-ser-humano-y-nan-mester-haya-tratamento-necesario
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