TPF Works with All Gov. Ministries in Support of Crisis Care on SXM
Philipsburg, St. Maarten – Thursday, April 15, 2021 – Turning Point Foundation has been proactive in developing the care of substance abuse cases since 1989, both locally and regionally. Currently we are working together with the Justice Ministry and by extension all government ministries to assist with creating working solutions to the various obstacles St. Maarten is facing in providing substance abuse and Crisis Care to those much in need. The increase in stress, grief, loss, and trauma stemmed from the 2017 Hurricanes and the on-going COVID-19 pandemic are primary contributors, leading to the spike in compulsive behaviors, including domestic and substance abuse.
This week, our staff spent time with loved ones and concerned parties of this most recent, very public young citizen; as we do with all the families of potential clients who come to us seeking assistance on behalf of their loved ones. The process was explained; guiding the related parties through the system and channels that Turning Point works with, whereby legal admittance can be realized. The mere fact that Turning Point is a “mandated” center denotes the involvement of the court system. As such, we are bounded by said procedures as outlined by our decree.
For years, Turning Point along with Mental Health Foundation and other partners have collectively and individually met with various arms of government to work on fixing the gaps in the system. However, the challenges of the day have made it difficult to achieve the level of change desired. Where small steps have been made, larger more impactful change has not yet been realized. Within the past few weeks, Turning Point has again resumed meetings with the Minister of Justice and representatives of other organizations, as well as meeting privately with various members in government in support of Crisis Care on the island. Our quest began well before unfortunate realities befell the island’s more well-known citizens.
In the midst of economic constraints and pandemic regulations, Turning Point has proposed, what we believe, are extremely viable solutions for an immediate way forward.” said Lloyd J. Richardson, MD and Founding Member, & Interim Director of the Turning Point Foundation. “However, it remains at the discretion and will of the Counsel of Ministers to bring about the ultimate solution.” Lloyd Richardson, M.D. would like to further stress that “Turning Point does not have the same purpose or beschikking as the Mental Health Foundation.”
Dr. Tasheena Thomas, RN, BSc, M.A., PhD., Senior Counselor at Turning Point, states “Although we do cross over in treatment, mental health care is only one component of the care we provide. Turning Point focuses on wholistic wellness, the mental, spiritual, and physical wellbeing of our clients as they work toward their sobriety.”
To assist with Crisis Care, Turning Point has been working to meet the demands of the Inspectorate of Health. This again remains in the hands of the powers that be and in this crucial time, both economically and socially, we are convinced that if our voice is heard, solutions can be brought to bear that will assist, not only this popular figure in society but all the others who preceded him and the many we already know of, who are desperate for the same type of care.
The Minister of Justice is working diligently but it will require the cooperation and will of the other ministries, concerned organizations, and stakeholders for real success.
Turning Point continues to be ready and present to provide rehabilitative service in its capacity within the current framework; and is ever willing to continue development of services for the island of St. Maarten.
Turning Point Foundation Contact Info
Website: www.tpfsxm.com
Email: info@tpfsxm.com