'Tek it to Dem' project transforms lives

• Ex-addict embarks on a better life, drug-free
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Kaymian Weekley, Gleaner Writer

JAILED, DEPORTED, abused and unable to manage the emotional challenges of his life, Kevin Kurt Josephs, a substance abuser, is now making strides to reintegrate into society in order to make a meaningful contribution.

"I am working on fixing my defects," said Josephs, who is now housed at Richmond Fellowship Jamaica, Patricia House, a rehabilitation centre at Upper Musgrave Avenue, St Andrew.

Josephs was assisted through the 'Tek it to Dem' project, which assists the homeless community, of which a subcommunity of substance abusers belongs.

'Tek it to Dem' started in 2008 and was the brainchild of a group of National Council on Drug Abuse (NCDA) staff members.

During one of their routine trips, the group of five, headed by project manager Collette Browne, counselled and rapped with Josephs who, at that time, was not ready for their help.

However, after a less-than-desirable experience, he volunteered to participate in the project.

"I went back overseas illegally because I wanted to be with my family, and I got caught, then got immigration bail, started using cocaine again because I was being ripped apart," said Josephs.

things fell apart

He added that he was again deported and things fell apart.

While in Jamaica Josephs explained that he had easy access to cocaine and marijuana and he became an addict. As a frequent drug user, Josephs said he used a lot of money to support his cravings and, when money was not available, "I use five-finger discount (shoplifting)," said Josephs.

Not being able to function without having the family he spent much of his years with, he returned to cocaine to ease his pain.

In an effort to elude his relatives who counselled him against using cocaine, he retired to the streets, using and dealing in cocaine.

Josephs was taken to the University Hospital of the West Indies Detoxification Unit and, from there, to a rehabilitation centre. He has high praises for God and the NCDA team.

"I am glad that God did not leave me even though I left Him so many times," said Josephs.

"I am happy that these caring, loving people helped me, they talked with me. They have a good programme and I have seen them helping others," he told The Gleaner last week.

Josephs is determined to get well and take care of his children, especially his son in Jamaica.