Calgary - A new project aimed at reducing the number of drug-addicted people who support their habits through non-violent crime was disclosed at provincial court last week.

The drug treatment court pilot project is a two-year program funded by the city. It will assist drug dependent men to give up their addictions in lieu of sending them to jail.

Offenders charged with drug trafficking and possession for the purpose of trafficking (who face a sentence of less than two years) must plead guilty and be willing to participate.

If accepted, they go from custody to one of five beds available at The Savation Army Centre of Hope for the first six months of treatment.

They will then transer to other community outreach for the final 12 -18 months for relapse prevention and job training.