MONROVIA – The New Life Recovery Center, located in Margibi County, has proudly graduated four young individuals from its rehabilitation program, marking a significant milestone in its 13th graduation ceremony.
This event highlights the transformative impact of the center on the lives of many young people in Liberia who have struggled with substance abuse, often leading them to life on the streets of Monrovia and beyond.
Under the leadership of Mr. Jefferson Knight, the executive director and a human rights monitor for the United Methodist Church in Liberia, the center has been dedicated to supporting at-risk youth since its inception in 2013.
Operating initially along the Roberts International Airport highway, the center has focused on individuals who have fallen into the grips of addiction, providing them with the support needed to regain control of their lives.
During the ceremony, Knight emphasized the urgent need for national attention to the drug crisis in Liberia, which he described as a national emergency claiming the lives of countless young people.
He pointed out that the center relies heavily on the contributions of family members and goodwill individuals for its operations, raising concerns about limited resources, particularly the lack of facilities for female residents.
“We are in desperate need of support to ensure that we can continue to provide for these young people who represent the future of our nation,” Knight stated.
He urged the national government and citizens alike to take collective action against the drug epidemic.
The graduation ceremony was attended by various members of the United Methodist Church, including the Minister of Agriculture, Dr. J. Alexander Nunta, who sponsored seven youths at the center. Unfortunately, only two were able to complete their treatment.
Dr. Nunta expressed gratitude for the center’s efforts and called for increased national collaboration to tackle the drug issue promptly.
Bishop Samuel J. Quior, the bishop of the United Methodist Church, also addressed the gathering, urging national leaders to set aside personal differences and unite in the fight against drug abuse in Liberia.
He emphasized the importance of immediate action to protect the nation’s youth from the clutches of addiction.
As the New Life Recovery Center continues its mission to rehabilitate and empower vulnerable youth, there is a growing need for support and resources to expand its capacity and enhance its programs.
The center’s commitment to transforming lives is crucial for building a brighter future for the next generation in Liberia.
