Over 6,000 sought help from OASI as foundation warns of rising drug abuse
Gozo-based organisation marks 35th anniversary, says drug use increasing with serious consequences for mental health and families
More than 6,000 people struggling with addiction have sought help from OASI Foundation over the past 35 years as the organisation warned substance abuse is on the increase.
During a ceremony held at the foundation’s premises in Gozo, CEO Noel Xerri said thousands more have benefited from educational and prevention programmes in schools, workplaces and the wider community.
The foundation started as an initiative by Fr Manwel Cordina to offer hope to people who had lost their way, offering just one community service. Today, OASI has grown into an organization providing a wide range of prevention, therapy, rehabilitation, outreach and aftercare services.
Xerri warned that the use of substances such as cocaine and cannabis continues to rise, alongside an increase in the use of multiple substances simultaneously, with serious consequences for mental health and families.
He urged society to confront these realities “honestly and without downplaying the risks”, stressing that prevention remains one of the most important tools for protecting future generations.
Foundation chairperson Joseph Borg called for clear and responsible messaging on addiction and urged public authorities and political parties to work together for the common good, saying addiction affects society as a whole.
In a recorded message, President Myriam Spiteri Debono said addiction should never define a person and that society’s response must be based on prevention, education, support, treatment and, above all, empathy.
She praised OASI as a place of refuge, guidance and dignity for people and families affected by addiction.
The President also recognised the foundation's work in prevention, particularly its campaign that led to the ban on the recreational use of nitrous oxide, and referred to the government's announced €2.3 million investment to strengthen the foundation's services.
During the celebration, the foundation presented its annual Ġieħ l-OASI award to the Għajnsielem Local Council for its role in efforts to ban the recreational use of nitrous oxide, and to Smartphone Free Childhood Gozo for its commitment to promoting healthier childhoods free from the pressures and harmful effects of social media.