In 2007, the Bermuda Harbour Light celebrated 30 years of ministry. In April 1977, when the Dudley G. Butterfield Residence first opened its doors, it was a light at the end of the tunnel for men battling the effects of alcoholism. The local paper called them “derelicts, the rummies who have scavenged a precipitous living for too long.”
Today, the program has expanded to include many substance addictions. But the goal of the ministry remains unchanged as it still seeks to provide a holistic approach to those seeking restoration and healing. It is recognized as the most effective treatment program on the island—the only one that takes clients through all stages of recovery.
The quest for addictions treatment is not an easy road. It involves changing old patterns of behaviour and learning new skills. Many times during the three- to six-month program clients must revisit old hurts and develop new ways to cope that do not involve drugs or alcohol. That’s why the holistic approach is invaluable. Many individual and group activities aid the process, along with participation in either Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous. Not everyone who begins the program completes it the first time. However, Augustina Ibegbuna, director of the facility, says, “We refuse to give up on clients even when they self-destruct and give up on themselves.”
Spiritual development plays a key role in the treatment program. Clients address their spiritual needs during their stay at Harbour Light through daily devotions, Bible study classes and attendance at Sunday worship. Ibegbuna observes, “We can clearly observe God restoring the men.”
This is encouraging for Harbour Light staff, who meet the men, sometimes at their lowest point. Assistant counsellor Ralph Adams says, “The clients are inspirational to me.”
After treatment for their addiction, clients prepare to move back into the community by entering the life-skills component of the program and attending relapse prevention classes. In the process they develop a healthy lifestyle, responsible work habits and a moral and spiritual foundation for their behaviour. Augustina Ibegbuna reports, “Eighty percent of clients who complete the life-skills course successfully maintain sobriety over one year.”
Staff and clients of the Bermuda Harbour Light are also active in the community. In the past, they walked through the streets of Hamilton wearing distinctive red Recovery Relay t-shirts to bring awareness to the program. They also participated in Keep Bermuda Beautiful—a community clean-up operation. Residents are also involved in a fundraising program in which they make elaborate kites to sell in the community. The proceeds help to fund outdoor therapy activities for the men.
Augustina Ibegbuna says that she has the greatest job in the world. She is excited to see “men who have lost spiritual connection with God, their families and friends, being changed through God’s power. At times it can be frustrating, but the team always comes together to continue to do God’s work.”
Her staff agrees. “Working at The Salvation Army is a rewarding experience,” says life-skills trainer Kuni Frith-Black. “It enriches my soul.”