People with addictions

Helping People Overcome Addictions

Charleen Edwards overcame her drug addiction because she wanted to be a good parent to her son, Christopher. A program at The Crèche Child and Family Centre, a United Way agency, helped her kick her drug dependency. Charleen and Christopher were featured in United Way's 2000 public education campaign.

The Situation

Most people with addictions desperately want to regain control over their lives. They need help to do that. The fight is difficult, often seeming insurmountable. Addiction (whether to drugs, alcohol, gambling or eating) can destroy careers and families, and lead to serious health problems.

Illicit drug and alcohol abuse among homeless and youth populations remains a persistent problem.

The Facts

  • Addiction rates are two to three times higher in men than women, and highest among people aged 15-24 (2003).
  • In Toronto, 71% of the homeless population report using drugs regularly; 49% report regular use of crack (2007).
  • 37% of people diagnosed with an alcohol disorder will have a mental health disorder at some point in their lives–which is close to twice the rate found in people who do not have a lifetime history of a substance use disorder.
  • 53% of people diagnosed with a substance use disorder (other than alcohol) will also have a mental health disorder at some point in their lives.

United Way Support

United Way supports social and health services in Toronto that provide the greatest impact to our community. As part of this network, United Way funds 25 agencies dealing with addictions. Substance abuse programs targeting youth and people in conflict with the law offer counselling, and educational and prevention programs. Teen drug prevention programs, which include workshops and recreational and sports activities, encourage youth to learn healthier ways to spend their leisure time.

Your donation makes a difference by supporting:

  • Individual, group, and family counselling
  • Prevention and awareness programs
  • Community education
  • Residential and day programs for people with addictions
  • Follow-up support

Download the brochure: Helping People Overcome Addictions (pdf - 54 KB).