“New wing for Gosnells rehab centre”

West Australian, New Homes, 9th January 2010

Dale Alcock Homes will build a new wing at the Salvation Army’s Harry Hunter Rehabilitation Centre is Gosnells, with construction expected to begin soon.

The centre runs the second stage of the Salvation Army’s drug and alcohol rehabilitation program, admitting patients who have completed a detox and assessment stage at Bridge House in Highgate.

“It’s a thirteen-week intensive live-in program designed to address deep rooted issues people might have that have caused them to go down this destructive path,” said Salvation Army spokesman Warren Palmer.

“After they graduate, we facilitate their move into the community in a careful and monitored way with our continuing care program.”

The new wing will incorporate three units exclusively for women.

Although patients are presently housed in two mixed-sex wings, separate accommodation is preferable, particularly for women who are victims of domestic violence or sexual abuse.

“A number of the women who come through the centre have children so the new units will have their own designated personal area where the women can spend time with their kids,” Mr Palmer said.

The builder’s managing director, Dale Alcock, explained why the company got involved. “When you take some time out of your day to visit a place like Harry’s, it does affect you.,” he said.

“We were touched by what the Salvation Army was able to achieve with limited resources and the impact that the centre was having on people’s lives.”

The Salvation Army will fund the project with a Lotterywest grant and a contribution from a private donor.

Mr Palmer said it work would not be possible without the “very generous and accommodating” costing schedule arranged by Dale Alcock, who will be completing the project as a discount.

Construction is expected to begin next month.

Dale Alcock Homes is the existing major sponsor of the Salvation Army’s Red Shield Door Knock Appeal and Mr Alcock said he was excited by the opportunity to give back to the community.

“When you run a successful business in a prosperous State like WA, it is good to be reminded that, as a community, we will be judged by the way we look after those who are in a worse position than ourselves,” he said.

The new wing will also free up existing accommodation presently used by female clients increasing the centres capacity.

“It will decrease the waiting time for Bridge House to Harry’s which is great because an important factor in rehabilitation is to capture that moment of will and intent,” Mr Palmer said.