Nearly 400 people filled the Winnfield Civic Center April 25 in a celebration of freedom:  freedom from the addiction of drugs and alcohol in an event sponsored by Mt. Grace Men & Women.

The annual Spring Gala drew some 325 sponsors and guests to the center where another 50 residents and staffers from the men’s and women’s centers were there to greet, feed and offer song and testimony for them about their Christ-based victory over addiction.

The Mt. Grace Adult & Teen Challenger Louisiana program got its start 23 years ago and found roots to grow here in Winn Parish.  “Its foundation is the freedom that God has given us.  If we can get people through the doors, God will take care of them,” the audience heard.

Strong testimony of faith-based hope was interspersed through the evening. One riveting item on the program was entitled “Reality Skit” where, as the entire Mt. Grace cast stood on stage, three young ladies in turn began by repeating “Reality Is” and chanting a list of events that that taken them into addiction.  “That Reality Was Me,” each confirmed.

Then each returned with “Truth Is” by citing Christ’s healing touch and the list of truths of His love that had brought them back to sobriety.  “That Truth Is Me.”

The success rate of faith-based Teen Challenge is far better than traditional addiction rehabilitation programs.  While some families can afford to contribute towards the cost of treatment for students, most cannot, the center says.  Mt. Grace self-generates some income through its clothing center in Winnfield and the Dodson Café (plus plants and blueberry operations there) but strongly depends on support from individuals, churches, businesses, organizations and grants.

More information is available on their website at http://www.laatc.com.