Former drug addict recounts his Caritas experience
A former drug user made it through rehab after his second attempt and is now a Caritas volunteer. He tells Sarah Carabott a story of faith and perseverance, with a strong message for others like him
For 12 years, Mark Cassar took several risks for the sake of drugs, until one day he decided to take a last chance – and knocked on Caritas’s door.
Six years after his second rehabilitation programme, the young man, who was a heavy drug user by the age of 16, is now helping others overcome their addiction.
Just a few days ago, the reformed man was a key helper in the meal organised by Caritas Malta for 320 people who had no one to spend Christmas with.
Mr Cassar, who has not been photographed for this article, forms part of Caritas Youths, a group of volunteers that was a driving force behind the Christmas lunch.
For Caritas public relations officer Marica Mizzi, Mr Cassar was an important asset for the event. In fact, in collaboration with the Alfred Mizzi Foundation, he coordinated the provision, organisation and distribution of the food.
It was no easy task, and he still cannot believe the change over the past years that transformed him as a man, allowing him to help coordinate...