Children of Alcoholics Awareness Week brings needed attention to the most vulnerable victims of addiction
The National Association for Children of Alcoholics annually designates the week of February 12-18 to break the silence for children suffering in homes with addiction.
“When one in four American children live with a family member suffering from a substance use disorder, it’s important to know where to go for help,” said Jerry Moe, National Director of the Betty Ford Center Children’s Program. “That’s why the Betty Ford Center Children’s Program participates in the National Association for Children of Alcoholics’ (NACoA) annual week of awareness events and programs.”
The Betty Ford Center Children’s Program is part of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation, the nation’s largest nonprofit provider of addiction treatment and recovery resources. It provides the education and support girls and boys ages 7-12 need to stay healthy and safe when their parent has a substance use disorder.
Since its inception in 1983, the Children’s Program has helped thousands of kids and families cope with the challenges and difficulties of addiction. No family is ever turned away from our Children’s Program due to inability to pay.
“The family members hurt most by addiction are the children,” he added. “They often experience mental, emotional and physical problems and are at a greater risk of neglect and abuse when exposed to addiction at an early age. These children also have a good chance – two to four times – of developing addiction later in life. That’s why it’s important to break the cycle of addiction.”
“Events like Children of Alcoholics Awareness Week help draw attention to this national problem,” Moe said. “Given the rise in substance use disorders, particularly the rampant opioid addiction we’ve seen across the country, it’s vital that we as a community know where to turn when addiction strikes our family or those we know.”
COLORADO CHILDREN’S PROGRAM: June 22-25, 2017
The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation Children’s Program will be held in Colorado Springs June 22-25th for kids age 7-12 who come from a home that has struggled in the past, or is still struggling with alcohol or other drug addiction. Many children served by CASA are impacted by a family member’s addiction.
This four-day program provides prevention and education in a safe, supportive setting. The program helps children learn they are not alone and there are other children and families who have similar experiences. Through art, games, role-play and fun activities, children learn to identify and express feelings, develop self-care skills and deepen communication with their parents. Parents or caregivers join their children for a portion of the program. The adult component includes parent education and support. The Children’s program helps caregivers and children open lines of communication and heal the hurt in their relationships. By learning about addiction in an age-appropriate way, children gain valuable insight and understanding. The entire family learns new skills and is given the tools to recover.
No child is ever turned away due to inability to pay.
For information call 303-745-2275 or visit http://