Church Uses Rock Climbing To Help Addicts Recover
A Christian charity in Scotland, East Ayrshire Churches Homelessness Action (EACHa), is using an innovative rock-climbing program to help people recovering from addiction reintegrate into the community. In collaboration with the local climbing organization Above Adventure, EACHa offers the New Heights program, which provides free rock-climbing sessions aimed at boosting resilience and self-confidence in participants. The program is particularly impactful in areas like Shortlees and Onthank, which are among the most deprived regions in Scotland.
EACHa, founded in 2005 by Rev. David Cameron of New Laigh Kirk, is an ecumenical charity that unites 20 churches from various denominations to support vulnerable individuals. The New Heights program goes beyond physical fitness, with the aim of rebuilding hope, fostering community connections, and helping participants reach their potential. EACHa’s development manager, Kris Fearon, emphasized that the initiative addresses social issues such as youth disengagement and the risks of crime and substance abuse in the local community.
The program runs from February through June, engaging 15 to 20 participants per session in activities like rock climbing, walking, and paddleboarding, with many participants having faced homelessness and mental health struggles. Expert coaches guide them as they learn teamwork, perseverance, and other critical life skills necessary for recovery and reintegration into society. Feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with many feeling empowered to push their boundaries and work toward a better future.
New Heights has garnered praise for its impact, including recognition from the Scottish Parliament, which supported the continuation of the program with a £9,886 grant from the National Lottery. Fearon expressed gratitude for this support, highlighting how the program is helping to transform lives and create lasting change in the community. Beyond New Heights, EACHa runs several other initiatives to support vulnerable individuals, including providing essential items for those transitioning out of homelessness and offering one-on-one support for people recovering from addiction.
Rev. Cameron, the charity’s chairman, reflected on the organization’s growing impact, noting how their expanded services are reaching more people than ever before. Through programs like New Heights and the Community Friends Drop-In center, EACHa continues to make a significant difference in the lives of individuals facing homelessness, addiction, and social isolation, offering them support, connection, and hope for a better future.